Missing and murdered inquiry commissioner tries to quell concerns over staff resignations

The national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girlsis trying to reassure stakeholders that there is no reason to worry about the recent wave of high-level resignations from its staff.

Michle Audette, one ofthe inquiry's five commissioners, said the resignations are not cause for concern.

She said the commissioners understand that the departures "can prompt a reaction and some concerns," but that the leadership is solid and efficient.

On Friday, the executive director of theinquiry, Michle Moreau, resigned "for personal reasons."

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Her resignation was the latest in a string of departureswhich began in February.

Among the people who resigned areChantale Courcy,director of operations,Sue Montgomery, director of communications, and Tanya Kappo,manager of community relations.

"There are questions that we ask ourselves is the team healthy? Is there a problem with the pressure that they're getting from people, organizations or families? We have a lot of question marks," said Viviane Michel, president of the Quebec Native Women's Association.

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Audette said she has already found a replacement for Moreau and that the inquiry is in a transition period until Moreauleaves on July 21.

"A choice was made in regardto a candidate that will work with Ms. Moreau for the transfer of knowledge," Audette said.

She said she wanted to assure their people on the ground and in different bureaus that the inquiry isnot leaving such an important position empty.

The inquiry began last September and is expected to cost $53.8 million. Thefinal report is expected at the end of 2018.

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