An engineer who told a reporter about structural damage to Montreal’s Champlain Bridge before mentioning it to his employer has pleaded guilty to breaking confidentiality rules that govern his profession.
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Documents from a hearing of the disciplinary committee of the Quebec Order of Engineers in mid-August show Jean-Claude Gilbert gave Radio-Canada details and video of a broken expansion joint on the bridge in May 2013.
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He said he was concerned about the safety of drivers.
His former employer, an engineering firm contracted to inspect the bridge for the federal agency that runs it, filed a complaint for divulging confidential information.
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Gilbert, who was the head of the inspection team, is now awaiting a decision on the sanction he’ll receive.
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Lawyers have agreed to a joint recommendation of a $5,000 fine plus costs, but Gilbert told the board he hopes to avoid paying costs.
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A spokeswoman for the order says the disciplinary committee typically renders a decision within 90 days.