Government whistleblowers move closer to trial

Jon Waddell, The Ottawa Citizen: July 15, 1999

A $36-million lawsuit by two Department of Foreign Affairs employees has moved a step closer to trial. John Guenette and Joanna Gualtieri filed a lawsuit last year against the federal government , alleging they were emotionally abused and ostracized for questioning spending on the overseas accommodations enjoyed by foreign service officers.

The statement of claim said the culture and environment at Foreign Affairs did not allow them to do their jobs with integrity. Lawyers for the plaintiffs and defendant were involved in examinations for discovery last week.

Charles Gibson, lawyer for Mr. Guenette and Ms. Guarltieri, said Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd xworthy could be a witness. However, government lawyer Linda Wall said it is unlikely Mr. Axworthy will appear because he had little to do with the situation. “He doesn’t even know these people,” she said.

Copyright Ottawa Citizen 1999 All Rights Reserved.