Premier's communications director facing domestic charges

The communications director for Premier Stephen McNeil has been placed on administrative leave after he told the office he had been charged for a domestic matter.

Kyley Harris, director of communications for McNeil’s office, has been placed on administrative leave with pay, said Laurel Munroe, a spokesperson for the premier’s office.

Munroe said the premier is not commenting on what happened. She said the decision to place Harris on administrative leave was made by Kirby McVicar, the chief of staff.

"The chief of staff was informed late today," said Munroe. "The decision was taken from there to put Mr. Harris on administrative leave with pay until the outcome of this matter is decided."

Munroe said the office doesn't know the nature of the specific charges and will not comment further.

"He won't be having any comment but the decision was made by the chief of staff and he certainly consulted with the premier," she said.

Harris remains on administrative leave indefinitely, a standard practice until this case is concluded, said Monroe.

She said the premier's office will determine who will fill Harris' duties in the coming days.