MP flags concerns over Zaccardelli

[CHIMO]

OTTAWA—A Conservative MP has flagged concerns over RCMP Commissioner Giuliano Zaccardelli's handling of would-be whistleblowers within the force to Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day and Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

Edmonton East MP Peter Goldring has spoken directly to Day about his fears. Last month, he wrote a letter to Zaccardelli — copied to Day and Harper — seeking assurances that no career reprisals would befall RCMP officers who come forward with damaging information about a sex abuse case that came under Zaccardelli's supervision when he was with "J" Division in New Brunswick.

After nearly a month of no response, Zaccardelli faxed a reply to Goldring, hours after the Star began inquiring about the delay last Friday, saying the force "is not vindictive" toward those who report wrongdoing, and reminding the MP of the officers' duty to report.

Mélisa Leclerc, a spokesperson for Day, said the minister "has assured Mr. Goldring that any RCMP member who comes forward with evidence or testimony specific to this file will not face retribution of any kind."

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