A DIRECTOR of social work, who was awarded a cash payout of more than £100,000 and his pension early after being retired from the post, has a new job inspecting the service.
Robert Peat, 57, will receive the sum after failing to win a similar post in the newly restructured Angus Council.
But it has emerged that he is to take a post as director of inspection of the Care Inspectorate, whose remit is to examine the work of other social work departments.
The move has raised eyebrows among his soon- to-be-former colleagues.
A source said: "At a time when the public purse is under pressure, we are handing people big pay-offs and early pension deals just to see them walk into another highly-paid job."
Annette Bruton, chief executive of the Care Inspectorate, said: "I am particularly pleased to welcome Dr Peat, who brings with him a vast wealth of experience in social care and his outstanding knowledge of treating drug and alcohol abuse."
Dr Peat, who described his new job as exciting, would not comment on his remuneration.
He is due to leave the council next month.
Angus Council declined to comment on the matter.
Dr Peat's replacement by the current head of housing Alan McKeown is expected to save the council about £358,000 a year.
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