The former CAO of the city of Mount Pearl is offering comment on a statement from the city which intends to appeal a Supreme Court ruling finding it breached Steve Kent’s privacy by monitoring Facebook messages exchanged between Kent and two former city councilors.

The city says it respects the decision of the court, however, it maintains that it was fully justified in seizing and reviewing the messages in question.

The city’s argument is that Kent was on administrative leave and under investigation on complaints of workplace harassment while “inappropriately” communicating with councillors with public duties regarding the investigation.

Kent says the Supreme Court ruling was “clear and logical” and he calls it “terribly disappointing” that the city is continuing to spend public money on an appeal while workers stand on the picket line.

He charges that according to yesterday’s city statement, the issue is very “personal and political.” He says the appeal adds insult to injury, and he claims the city violated his rights by snooping on his messages.