The Independent Commission Against Corruption announced on Thursday that it would hold an inquiry from December 3, as part of an investigation into the sacking of former SES deputy commissioner Tara McCarthy.

The inquiry will probe whether Mr Kear dismissed Ms McCarthy in May in reprisal, after she alleged her colleague SES Deputy Commissioner Steven Pearce had acted corruptly.

It is expected to run for up to two weeks. The inquiry will also examine allegations that Mr Kear failed to appropriately investigate Ms McCarthy’s claims regarding Mr Pearce.

Mr Kear is also alleged to have made false statements or attempted to mislead an officer of the commission.

ICAC Assistant Commissioner Theresa Hamilton will preside over the inquiry, while Michael Fordham, SC, and Callan O’Neill will act as counsel assisting.

The inquiry comes after Fairfax Media reported in September that Mr Pearce had been stood down pending the outcome of an investigation into credit cards misuse and overtime rorts by senior management at the SES.

Shortly after the ICAC released its statement announcing the inquiry, Police Minister Michael Gallacher said Mr Kear  requested leave until further notice.

Fire and Rescue NSW deputy commissioner Jim Smith will be acting commissioner.  AAP