Statement from President Patrick Deane

Earlier this week, the Tribunal reviewing a number of complaints made under the University’s Anti-Discrimination Policy released its public report. President Patrick Deane has issued the following statement in response to the report.

Statement from President Patrick Deane

The release of the Tribunal’s public report is the culmination of a painstaking process which has taken more than two years to complete. The Tribunal reviewed a variety of complaints under the Anti-Discrimination Policy, the complexity and number of which are unprecedented at McMaster.  Throughout the process the members of the Tribunal have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the completion of this difficult task and have dedicated many hours to doing so in a thorough and considered way.

Among other things, the Tribunal determined that a number of individuals engaged in a course of conduct which compromised the integrity of the tenure and promotion process and amounted to an abuse of the responsibilities entrusted to them as senior tenured faculty members. This, as well as other behaviour, led, ultimately, to the creation of a poisoned work/academic environment, which was, regrettably, not addressed effectively through the University’s policies. The types of behaviour described in the Tribunal’s report have no place on our campus, and are incompatible with the values of academic freedom, collegiality, and respect that are fundamental to the McMaster community.

The University takes seriously its commitment to provide an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment and will not tolerate such behaviour against any member of our community. As such, I fully accept the Tribunal’s findings, including the various orders and recommendations, and have already begun the process of implementing the recommended sanctions and other remedies. Certain measures, such as the required policy reviews and training, will take more time to implement but I am committed to ensuring their completion. I would ask for your support as we work together over the coming months to restore a positive environment for all members of our community.