Governor General Julie Payette, assistant resign following workplace harassment report

By Cormac Mac Sweeney, Lucas Casaletto

Governor General Julie Payette has informed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of her resignation.

The news comes as the results of an investigation into allegations of a toxic workplace environment at Rideau Hall are expected to be released.

Payette’s assistant, Assunta Di Lorenzo, will also resign as a result.

 

In a statement, Payette apologized, saying “tensions have arisen” at Rideau Hall over the last few months.


“While no formal complaints or official grievances were made during my tenure, which would have immediately triggered a detailed investigation as prescribed by law and the collective agreements in place, I still take these allegations very seriously,” Payette said.

“Not only did I welcome a review of the work climate at the OSGG, but I have repeatedly encouraged employees to participate in the review in large numbers. We all experience things differently, but we should always strive to do better, and be attentive to one another’s perceptions.”

“I am a strong believer in the principles of natural justice, due process, and the rule of law, and that these principles apply to all equally,” Payette continued

“Notwithstanding, in respect for the integrity of my vice-regal Office and for the good of our country and of our democratic institutions, I have come to the conclusion that a new Governor General should be appointed. Canadians deserve stability in these uncertain times.”


The Privy Council Office revealed last year that Quintet Consulting Corp. had been hired to conduct a third-party investigation.

That review began after multiple current and former staff accused the Governor General and her second in command of bullying and verbal harassment to the point where some staff were brought to tears or left their jobs.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also issued a statement acknowledging Payette’s resignation.

“Every employee in the Government of Canada has the right to work in a safe and healthy environment, and we will always take this very seriously,” Trudeau said.

“Today’s announcement provides an opportunity for new leadership at Rideau Hall to address the workplace concerns raised by employees during the review.”

Trudeau confirmed the Chief Justice of Canada will fulfill the duties of the Governor General on an interim basis.

The union president for RCMP officers says they first learned last September of “harassment and other troubling behaviour” experienced by members that were assigned under Payette’s protection.

“Now that the independent advisors have completed their review of the workplace harassment at Rideau Hall, we hope that our members will be able to experience a much more positive and rewarding work environment that, frankly, should be the norm,” said Brian Sauvé, President of the National Police Federation.

Payette says she will use this time now to tend to her father whose health has worsened as of late.

“It has been an immense privilege to serve my country and to fulfill the constitutional duties of my Office on behalf of all Canadians. I wish to extend my thanks to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for his trust and for offering me this incredible opportunity,” she wrote.

“… I would like to conclude by conveying my sincere appreciation to Canadians for their support over the years. I have had the chance to meet, represent and celebrate the accomplishments of thousands of extraordinary Canadians from coast to coast over the past years and I will always cherish these memories. We live in a remarkable country.”

“It has been an honour and a privilege,” Payette ended by saying.

Payette, a former astronaut, was appointed as the representative for the Queen in 2017.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today