Former auditor general to review RCMP’s response to harassment lawsuits

OTTAWA – The Liberal government has appointed a former auditor general to review the RCMP’s response to lawsuits from four members of the force alleging harassment.

The government says the move is the latest step to ensure all RCMP employees feel safe and respected in the workplace.

As a special adviser, Sheila Fraser will provide recommendations on the policies and procedures the national police force pursued after Catherine Galliford, Alice Fox, Atoya Montague and Susan Gastaldo filed legal proceedings against the RCMP.

Fraser’s appointment is effective immediately and concludes at the end of March.

Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale had already asked the RCMP watchdog to revisit the broader issue of bullying and harassment within the force.

The Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP is looking at whether recommendations it made three years ago have been implemented.

In its 2013 report, the watchdog said the force must take swift and effective action on complaints of workplace bullying and harassment to restore the shaken confidence of both members and the public.

It called for a more independent process, strict timelines for responding to accusations and force-wide training on the issue.

The commission’s report is expected next year.

In addition, new legislation has revamped the way such cases are handled within the force and training has also been stepped up.

The Mounties have pledged zero tolerance for harassment.

RCMP Commissioner Bob Paulson told a Commons committee earlier this year that the force has grappled with a bullying and intimidation problem, but he stressed that it had made strides.

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