November 18, 2018 (Edmonton) – Alberta Party MLA Karen McPherson has written to the Speaker of the Legislature asking for an investigation into how allegations of sexual misconduct by sitting MLAs were handled.

In her letter, MLA McPherson calls for an investigation into how the allegations were handled within government caucus, and whether or not that process is appropriate because these are serious allegations. If the process is deemed insufficient, she is also calling for a full, independent investigation into the allegations.

“Allegations of sexual misconduct are very serious, and they need to be treated as such. I am concerned about the secrecy of the premier’s office handling of these incidents.”

According to McPherson, internal caucus investigations simply aren’t good enough.

“Sexual abuse and sexual misconduct thrive in secrecy. Keeping these investigations within the privacy of the government caucus could be interpreted as being more about protecting political prospects, rather than accountability to the complainants and to Albertans.”

“I hope the Speaker will take our request for an investigation seriously. Albertans need to know that these allegations were handled in an appropriate manner.”