Notley vows NDP will act on internal abuse claims

Alberta Opposition NDP Leader Rachel Notley apologized Sunday for her party's handling of internal harassment complaints, and said the party will hire an independent third party to handle those and future issues.

That commitment emerged from this weekend's meeting in Red Deer of the NDP'S provincial council, which recommended the party take action in the wake of allegations of mistreatment of volunteers recently raised by some party members and constituency associations.

“It's clear that, in some cases, we have fallen short. We've heard concerns expressed about that. And as your leader, I take responsibility for this. And I apologize,” Notley said during her speech to delegates.

“I take responsibility now for ensuring that the directions that you have given us this weekend are carried out. We will engage an external firm to conduct independent investigation, mediation and resolution of complaints. An independent body will also review our internal HR policies.”

Notley added all executive staff, including herself, will complete respectful workplace training.

The NDP said its executive will address matters raised by constituency associations in a March letter to party leadership by the end of July.

That letter, penned by 15 constituency presidents and regional vice-presidents, alleged a pattern of mistreatment of volunteers and raised concerns over members feeling their input wasn't being taken seriously, as well as party influence in nomination races.

“It's really important to us that volunteers be respected and that they also feel that they're in an appropriate forum within they can raise concerns,” Notley said.

Former Calgary-bow constituency association president Krista Li said she was glad to see the apology from Notley, calling it a necessary step from the leader.