Aer Lingus fired Chief Executive Michael Foley, who was under internal investigation over allegations of sexual harassment.

Foley, who took the top job at the Irish carrier two years ago, denied the charges but a board subcommittee upheld two complaints against him by women employees. It concluded that "Mr. Foley’s position as chief executive is untenable (and) decided to terminate his employment with immediate effect."

Foley has been suspended on full pay since the allegations were made. He suggested the allegations are linked to reforms he tried to introduce to prepare the company for privatization.

The subcommittee was appointed to assess a report by a separate panel, which found the two complaints against Foley were "correct in all material respects," the Irish Times reported.

"I am shocked and disturbed by the decision of Aer Lingus," Foley said in a statement. "I reiterate my total innocence of the allegations made against me and will take all necessary steps to clear my good name."