CSIS says harassment lawsuit should be tossed, admits ‘inappropriate language’
OTTAWA — Canada’s spy agency is asking the Federal Court to dismiss a lawsuit from five Toronto employees, saying it never engaged in or tolerated religious bigotry, used derogatory nicknames or subjected the staffers to reprisals.
In a statement of defence filed with the court late Friday, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service admits “inappropriate language” was used by service employees in informal communications in the Toronto region.
But it says the allegations of the five employees were addressed by the service through polices and procedures relevant to the facts of each case.
The agency is committed to a healthy and respectful workplace of inclusion, and does not tolerate harassment, discrimination or bullying under any circumstances, the statement adds.