Gov. Gen. Julie Payette resigning after controversial tenure

Jan 21, 2021 | 2:42 PM

OTTAWA – Gov. Gen. Julie Payette is resigning, a source with direct knowledge of her decision but not authorized to discuss it publicly confirms to The Canadian Press.

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

The Privy Council Office revealed last year that Quintet Consulting Corp. had been hired to conduct a third-party investigation into allegations of workplace harassment in the office of the Governor General.

That came after CBC reports alleged that Payette belittled and publicly humiliated employees, reducing some to tears and prompting some to quit.

That prompted the Privy Council Office to launch a workplace review, which Payette herself welcomed at the time with a statement that said she was “deeply concerned” about the allegations.

Payette, in a statement, says Canadians deserve stability in uncertain time and says she is sorry for the tensions that have arisen at Rideau Hall in the past months.

Payette adds everyone has the right to a healthy and safe work environment and it appears this was not always the case.

She says out of respect for the integrity of her office, and for the good of the country and its democratic institutions, a new Governor General should be appointed.

In her statement, she says the decision also comes as her father’s health has deteriorated and her family needs her help.

Payette, a former astronaut, was named to the position in 2017.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 21, 2021.

by Canadian Press