MPP permanently removed from Ontario NDP
QUEEN’S PARK—With several specific allegations of serious workplace misconduct being substantiated against Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Michael Mantha in a final report from an independent third-party investigator, the MPP has now been banned permanently from the Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP).
“As leader, I take my responsibility for safe and respectful workplaces very seriously,” said Marit Stiles, leader of the official opposition NDP in a statement August 15. “Members of our caucus, and all elected officials, must be held to the higher standard for their behaviour and how they use the power they have.”
“The independent, third-party investigation is now complete, and based on its findings, the member will not be returning to the NDP Caucus,” said Ms. Stiles.
The Ontario NDP Caucus was informed that the investigator found that several of the specific allegations of workplace misconduct were substantiated.
The investigator based these findings on interviews with multiple witnesses, including those identified by MPP Mantha, as well as other documentary evidence, including video recordings.
“The Caucus also understands that although MPP Mantha initially participated in the investigation, he refused to personally attend an interview and did not provide documents promised to and requested by the investigator,” the NDP statement says.
“In light of these findings, MPP Mantha will not be returning to the Ontario NDP Caucus. In order to continue maintaining the privacy and safety of the complainant, the Caucus will not be disclosing further details of the report.”
A statement from Mr. Mantha’s office August 16 said, “MPP Mantha is reviewing the information with his legal counsel.”
MPP Mantha told The Expositor last Thursday, “There is no statement. I am reviewing the information with my legal counsel, and at the direction (of legal counsel), there is no statement at this point in time.”
Mr. Mantha had been suspended from the Ontario NDP Caucus this past April after the claims had originally been brought forward.
The specific nature of the allegations has not been publicly shared, although the NDP told CTV News Toronto it involved behaviour that violated the party’s workplace harassment policy.
Mr. Matha was first elected in Algoma-Manitoulin in 2011, has been elected in four elections and has been sitting as an independent MPP since he was ousted from the NDP.
