Wowchuk says sensitivity training made him ‘better person’
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 26/09/2019 (2385 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
WINNIPEG — Progressive Conservative MLA Rick Wowchuk spoke to media in person for the first time Wednesday since being publicly accused of sexual harassment and found in violation of the legislative assembly’s respectful workplace policy five times.
Wowchuk was the subject of complaints by his former constituency assistant, which an internal investigation found had merit. They included one incident where he showed the staffer a picture of naked women wearing hard hats and holding chainsaws. He had reportedly asked her beforehand if she wanted to see an image of “hard-working beavers.”
Wowchuk had previously apologized for his behaviour in a written statement sent to media and acknowledged he had undergone sensitivity training.
He told reporters Wednesday he would not comment on the specifics of the allegations, citing privacy rules around the respectful workplace policy.
“We have a process, we have a policy in place. It occurred. And you know, there was violation of … five instances on the respectful workplace (policy),” he said. “I acknowledge (them) and take full responsibility. I’ve apologized and want to move forward in serving the people who overwhelmingly supported me.”
Wowchuk was re-elected Sept. 10 with about 68 per cent of the 8,115 votes cast in Swan River.
On the subject of his sensitivity training, he wouldn’t say much about what it entailed, who conducted the training nor how long it took. But Wowchuk did emphasize the training was valuable.
“I learned to become a better person and watch my choice of words and actions,” he said, adding he accepts his actions were wrong.
“It occurred. There was a violation on five instances of the respectful workplace (policy). I acknowledge. I take full responsibility,” he said.
“I’ve apologized to caucus and to individuals involved and I just want to work hard for the people of our constituency.”
Tory caucus chairman Wayne Ewasko earlier this month refused to elaborate on why the Progressive Conservatives allowed Wowchuk to remain.
Manitoba political leaders have been trying to find ways to address sexual harassment on the job.
The PCs implemented a “no wrong door” policy in 2018 after several women made allegations that former NDP cabinet minister Stan Struthers tickled and groped female staff or made sexual remarks.
Months later, Tory Cliff Graydon was ousted from caucus following reports that he had invited two women on separate occasions to sit on his lap, and had invited one woman to lick food off his face.
Former Tory MLA Nic Curry decided not to run for re-election after he faced allegations earlier this year of making inappropriate comments.
All 36 Tory MLAs took their oaths of office Wednesday. The legislative session resumes on Monday.
» Winnipeg Free Press