NDP calls for immediate investigation into claims of rampant discrimination at CSIS

The following is a statement issued by Matthew Dubé, NDP Critic for Public Safety:

"The reports of persistent discrimination targeted at Muslim, gay and black employees by CSIS supervisors are so disturbing that immediate action is required from the Liberal government. These shocking allegations of consistent harassment, fueled by racist, homophobic and Islamophobic notions suggest the presence of deep rooted bigotry within CSIS.

Such treatment would be totally unacceptable in any workplace in Canada, but here constitutes potential concerns for Canada’s national security as those accused serve as supervisors within our most powerful and secretive agency. With its expanded powers and limited accountability, CSIS must perform its duties with the utmost professionalism. This sort of behaviour cannot be tolerated, and if upon investigation these claims are proven correct, all those responsible must be dealt with swiftly and severely.

I am calling on Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale to immediately launch a comprehensive and credible investigation into claims of rampant and persistent discrimination within CSIS and the impacts it has on employees’ working conditions and on the quality of work produced.

We must stand up against hate everywhere it exists."