INDECENT images found on Isle of Wight Council computers have led to the sacking of one employee and the disciplining of others, a freedom of information request has revealed.
Responding to an inquiry made by Michael Coombes of Isle of Wight Radio, the Isle of Wight Council said there had been ten investigations carried out in the last five years, including one in the last 12 months.
That resulted in disciplinary action in each of the cases and four members of staff resigned during the process. One person was dismissed, however it is not known what action was taken in the remaining cases.
A council spokesman said: "The council has strict guidelines concerning the use of council computers, internet and e-mail and this policy is rigorously enforced.
"Given the council is a large organisation of upwards of 5,000 people, it is clear the instances of misuse are extremely rare.
"When a breach is suspected, a thorough investigation is carried out and the appropriate disciplinary action taken.
"Though each of the incidents breached the council’s code of conduct regarding appropriate use of electronic communication, there is no evidence of any illegal activity.
"The great majority of the cases involved computer use out of work time and using private e-mail or internet accounts. We do expect appropriate use of our computers and systems and we will continue to enforce the highest standard of security and take swift and appropriate action where required."
The council said it defined obscene as material which is offensive, indecent or pornographic, which includes any material of a sexual nature. All such material was prohibited.