Director Vigneault Statement Regarding Settlement Of Civil Litigation

Ottawa, December 14, 2017 – The Director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), David Vigneault, released the following statement regarding a settlement reached relating to the allegations of harassment and discrimination brought forward by five employees of the Service: 

“I am announcing today that the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), with the help of a mediator, negotiated a settlement to the civil litigation introduced by Service employees in Federal Court in July 2017. The settlement is in the best interest of all those concerned. As the terms of the settlement are confidential, no further comment will be provided on this matter.

As I have stated previously, CSIS does not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or bullying under any circumstances. The complexity of the ever-evolving threat environment requires that all CSIS employees are equipped to give their best. As such, I strongly believe in leading an organization where each employee promotes a workplace which is free from harassment and conducive to the equitable treatment of all individuals. 

Moving forward, the Service will be working to ensure that the behaviour of all employees reflects the CSIS Employee Code of Conduct principles of respect for democracy, respect for people, integrity, stewardship, and professional excellence. 

CSIS’ ability to fulfill its mandate is dependent on maintaining the trust of Canadians. We are steadfastly committed at every level of the organization to ensure that we perform with the highest ethical standards in place, and I remain committed to keeping Canadians informed as we progress.”