Emerson MLA Cliff Graydon expelled from PC caucus following 'pattern of inappropriate behaviour'

Cliff Graydonhas been oustedfrom the Progressive Conservativecaucusafter he reportedly made an inappropriate commentto a legislative staffer.

The Emerson MLA'sformer colleagues met behind closed doors on Mondayto determine the veteran politician'sfate.

"While we do not take this decision lightly, it has become apparent that previous attempts with Mr. Graydon to address a pattern of inappropriate behaviour have not succeeded," said caucus chairWayne Ewaskoin a prepared statement.

"We have acted fairly, swiftly and respectfully in dealing with this difficult matter while ensuring all policies and procedures were followed and that the privacy and confidentiality of all parties involved were respected."

Graydon's future has been in question after heallegedly asked a female legislative staff member to sit on his lapduring a luncheonearlier this month wherethere was a shortage of chairs. Later, a second former legislative staffer came forward to CBCwith similar allegations.

'Inappropriate comment'

In response, the party said an MLA's "inappropriate comment" was dealt with immediately, but refused to name Graydon or say what disciplinary action was taken.

Graydon initially said the incidentwas dealt with to the satisfaction ofall parties, but days laterannounced he would goon medical leave and take sensitivity training.He said he would not seek re-election in 2020.

To anyone who thinks these punishments are too severe, I would ask them to ask themselves what if this was your daughter?- Premier Brian Pallister

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallisterendorsedhis caucus'sdecision, which he described as a difficult but important call.

Further, he wants Graydonremovedfrom the Manitoba Hydro board, which cabinet will decide upon onWednesday.

"To anyone who thinks these punishments are too severe, I would ask them to ask themselves what if this was your daughter? What if this was your son? How would you feel then?" Pallistersaid.

He acknowledgedhe knew of previous examples of inappropriate behaviour from the MLA, for which Graydon received counselling, but Pallisterrefused to divulge whether he was speaking about more incidents than the time the Emerson MLA was reprimanded for tweetingthat asylum seekers were "illegals" and a "drain on society."

"Evidently, that counselling was less than successful," Pallister said.

He declined toshare how the PCcaucus reached its decision to boot Graydonfrom his post.

Action took too long: accuser

The former legislativestafferwho came forward with another harassmentaccusation against Graydon from2013said she's disappointed the MLA hadn't faced consequences earlier.

"There were numerous opportunities over the years where this situation could have been corrected, but too many people in positions of power chose to look the other way," she said in a statement.

"All those years, I felt like my experience didn't matter," she said."That being said, I am pleased to see the PC caucus react quickly to the most recent news of sexual harassment involving MLA Cliff Graydon. In the end, the right thing was done."

The staffer whomCBC agreed not to identifywas attending an all-party dinner atthe Royal Manitoba Winter Fair in Brandon in 2013 when she returned to her seat and found Graydon sitting there. He told her to sit on his lap and she did, she said. The employeesaid she thought it was a joke, but she felt compelled to sit down.

Emerson MLA Cliff Graydon expelled from PC caucus

6 years ago

Duration 2:33

Cliff Graydon has been ousted from the Progressive Conservative caucus after he reportedly made an inappropriate comment to a legislative staffer.

Liberal Leader Dougald Lamont didn't buy Pallister'sargument that dismissingGraydonshows his party is serious about addressing harassment allegations.

Without media exposure, Lamont suggestsGraydon would have enduredno serious ramifications.

"It's not enough to say we need a culture change or a rule change, there is no set due process," Lamont said. "We need an independent ethics commissioner who can actually take care of this."

House speaker Myrna Driedger plans to unveil arevamped harassment policy for all politicians and staff atthe legislature by theend of the year.

I'm an 'imperfect ally,' Kinew says

When questioned on his own checkered past, which includes stayed assault charges, NDP leader Wab Kinew said he'san "imperfect ally" committedto creating a safe work environment.

"I can't make excuses. I have to stand up and do what I can to make this a better place for women, in particular, but really for anybody."

A longtime farmer, Graydonserved as MLA for Emerson since 2007. The Progressive Conservative party website lists him as a champion for seniors whileserving in the legislature.

With files from Kristin Annable, Sean Kavanagh