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BCGEU wants independent third party to decide on remedy for unjustified Ministry of Health firings

"Government must ensure our members are never again subjected to deeply flawed investigations that lead to unfair firings,“ says BCGEU/NUPGE President Stephanie Smith

Vancouver (23 Dec. 2014) — BCGEU/NUPGE is calling for the appointment of an independent third party to determine the suitable remedy for members fired from the Ministry of Health in 2012 as a result of a flawed investigation. The call comes following the release today of a scathing report by Victoria lawyer Marcia McNeil into the investigation that led to the firing of the ministry employees.

Firings caused irreparable damage

“Today’s report details a terribly flawed investigation that ultimately led to the unjust firing of three BCGEU/NUPGE members, one of whom took his own life in the aftermath,” says Stephanie Smith BCGEU President. “We want to see the appointment of an independent third party to suggest a fair and reasonable remedy.”

“I want to thank Marcia McNeil for her report and recommendations. I also want to thank our members for participating in McNeil’s review,” says Smith. “Government must act on McNeil’s recommendations and ensure our members are never again subjected to deeply flawed investigations that lead to unfair firings. “

“The government also needs to hold to account the people responsible for violating the B.C. Public Service Agency’s own investigation protocols and best practices,” says Smith.

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The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE