RadioLive chiefs are remaining tight-lipped on the future of talkback host Martin Devlin despite his failure to return to the airwaves this week.
Early this month, the Herald reported that Devlin had been pulled from his slot on the RadioLive breakfast show due to poor ratings.
But CanWestchief executive Brent Impey denied there was any issue over Devlin's employment and said he would return to work on January 29.
On that day, however, former MP Willie Jackson hosted the station's breakfast slot and yesterday it was the turn of drive-show host James Coleman to get out of bed extra early.
Mr Impey said he could not comment on Devlin's future at the Auckland-based station.
"Issues between RadioLive and Martin Devlin are private and confidential issues. I am not at liberty to make any comment."
He referred all inquiries to Devlin's lawyer, Stephen Langton.
"His lawyers have requested all issues relating to Martin's employment remain confidential."
Mr Langton said he could not comment or confirm he was acting on behalf of Devlin.
Devlin could not be reached yesterday and his wife, Andi Brotherston, said he was unable to comment.
Devlin is in the middle of a three-year contract with the station after CanWest headhunted him from rival radio company TRN's Radio Sport.
He has fronted the RadioLive breakfast programme since the station's launch in April 2005.
The company's website continues to list him as a presenter.
It is understood recent negotiations have centred around the amount Devlin will be paid out for his contract, understood to be worth around $1 million.
