WorkSafeBC is investigating allegations of racism and harassment at the West Vancouver Police department.
The investigation has been launched as part of the agency’s expanded mandate to look into claims of workplace bullying.
The allegations came to light after the sudden retirement of the department’s police chief Peter Lepine, and reports of low staff morale.
Former West Vancouver Police chief and former B.C. minister of public safety and solicitor general Kash Heed said staff members told him about the complaints of sexual harassment, bullying, and racism.
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“I was aware for quite some time there were some issues, but I thought those issues were being dealt with by the senior management team of the West Vancouver Police Department, but it appears they have not been dealt with.”
Heed said those issues, coupled with a “damning” employee satisfaction survey, are very concerning.
“Bringing those issues to the attention of people within the department and not having them dealt with in an effective and an efficient way… the morale tanks,” he said, adding that he hasn’t considered returning to the department.
The chair of the West Vancouver Police Board, Michael Smith, said in a statement that the organization has no tolerance for racism, sexual innuendo, bullying, or backlash against whistleblowers.
“All our employees are to be treated respectfully and supported by their supervisors. The WVPD is taking quick and decisive action to address problems that they become aware of and will continue to investigate any allegations of improper behaviour. Our goal is always to make sure that our police force continues to provide the high level of service that our public expects.”
WorkSafeBC will look at anti-bullying policies and the complaints process at the department.
The agency hasn’t yet indicated when it will publicly report on its findings.
The search for new police chief is already underway.
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