Reader's freedom of speech "restricted"

Page 8

Dear Editor:

My name is Robert Laboucane. I am a Metis and former employee of the Department of Indian Affairs in Calgary. For two years I worked as the District Superintendent for Economic and Employment Development in Southern Alberta. Because of the statement (reprinted on this page,) I was fired in February of this year.

I have enclosed articles which will hopefully explain and give some insight into the unjust and unwarranted dismissal.

Upon examination of my statement to the press and follow-up remarks and letters and reports by the department, it all seems to say and mean the same thing, however, I was fired.

The divided loyalties faced by public servants is becoming increasingly more difficult to deal with. It seems that the intent and substance of the Public Servants Employment act conflicts greatly with the spirit of the Charter of Rights.

This conflict creates a great deal of uncertainty in the minds of many, many public servants, especially the Native people working within the department. Whenever these employees become aware of wrong-doing and speak out and inform the public, for whom they work, they lose their jobs.

This restriction of freedom of speech, expression and opinion is wrong. To classify "whistle-blowers" with secret agents only highlights the paranoia within the department.

The continual, purposeful contradictions of policy implementation, priorities, funding, down-sizing, program transfer, training, self-government, etc., borders on major conspiracy and fraud. This is directed to the Indian people by Indian Affairs officials on behalf of the Canadian public.

As a citizen of this country, my loyalties are duty is to inform the public who in fact pay my wages and expect no less, and yet I am fired for doing my job.

To date, after all these months, I have not heard one complaint about my actions from any Canadian citizen or organization. As a matter of act, it has all been supportive and many people, companies, associations and colleagues are indicating that they are proud of me. Finally, someone has taken a stand to right a wrong.

My adjudication hearing is in Calgary on October 7, 8 and 9. I was discharged

for "criticizing government policy as it relates to the Stoney Indian Band." Review the articles and you will see that what I said does not conflict with what many senior officials within and outside the department have said.

I would very much appreciate your comments on this issue and any support you might feel worthwhile.

Sincerely,

Robert Laboucane