By Canadian Press

McKinsey a ‘distraction’ from problem of consulting contracts, researcher tells MPs

Jan 30, 2023 | 2:48 PM

OTTAWA — A researcher testifying before a parliamentary committee on the rise in government contracts awarded to McKinsey & Company said the focus on that one consulting firm is a distraction.

Amanda Clarke, an associate professor of public administration at Carleton University, says the study should focus on the public service’s reliance on consulting firms overall.

Clarke says there are legitimate questions about McKinsey’s ethical track record, but that would be a separate issue to consider from the outsourcing of public service work.

McKinsey has received attention in recent weeks after media reports highlighted the rapid growth of the company’s work with the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

The House of Commons government operations committee will review contracts awarded to the firm since 2011, which would also include those signed by the former Conservative government.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

The consulting firm has also been scrutinized for its role in the opioid pandemic in the United States as well as working with autocratic governments globally.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 30, 2022.

The Canadian Press