CPC Calls for Submissions in RCMP Workplace Harassment Investigation

OTTAWA, Jan. 30, 2012 /CNW/ - The Commission for Public Complaints Against the RCMP (CPC) is conducting a public interest investigation into the Chair-initiated complaint regarding the conduct of RCMP members in handling allegations of harassment within the workplace.

The investigation will look into whether RCMP policies and procedures were adhered to and if they are adequate to deal with harassment allegations. The Commission will also assess the thoroughness and impartiality of investigations into allegations of workplace harassment.

In order to assist the Chair in drafting his final report and recommendations, public submissions are being sought on any matter relevant to the public interest investigation, as per the terms of reference available on the Commission's website: wwww.complaintscommission.ca.

All public submissions are required no later than March 30, 2012, and can be sent to:

Mailing address:
Commission for Public Complaints Against the RCMP
c/o Public Submissions, File 2011-3791
P.O. Box 1722, Station B
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada
K1P 0B3

Email address:
[e-mail]

Follow the CPC on Twitter @CPC_CPP

Call for Submissions

Public Interest Investigation into Issues of RCMP Workplace Harassment

On November 16, 2011, the Interim Chair of the Commission for Public Complaints Against the RCMP (Commission) launched a complaint and public interest investigation into the manner in which allegations of workplace harassment were handled within the RCMP.

The Commission intends to examine:

1. Whether those RCMP members notified of allegations of harassment adhered to the appropriate legislation, policies, procedures and guidelines in respect of workplace harassment;
2. Whether RCMP members conducting investigations into allegations of workplace harassment did so in a thorough and impartial manner; and
3. Whether existing RCMP policies, procedures and guidelines are adequate to ensure that allegations regarding RCMP members engaged in workplace harassment are dealt with fairly, effectively and thoroughly.

While it will not make a determination in respect of the harassment alleged in individual cases, the Commission intends to assess instances identified in order to make its findings and recommendations. The Commission's mandate is remedial in nature, and aims to identify any improvements that could be made, if appropriate, to the manner in which the RCMP investigates and handles complaints of workplace harassment. The Commission's goal is to address the public's interest in enhancing and maintaining confidence in the national police force.

In order to assist the Commission in the preparation of its final report and recommendations, public submissions are being sought on any matter relevant to the Chair-initiated complaint and public interest investigation, as laid out above.

While excerpts from submissions may be included in or referred to in the Commission's public report into this matter, such excerpts will be depersonalized and unattributed.

The Commission will accept submissions until March 30, 2012. Submissions may be sent by mail or e-mail to:

Commission for Public Complaints Against the RCMP
c/o Public Submissions, File 2011-3791
PO Box 1722, Stn B
Ottawa ON K1P 0B3

[e-mail]

For further information:

Laura Colella
613-219-4595
[e-mail]