RCMP now formally investigating allegations against Alberta Health Services
Alberta RCMP have officially launched an investigation into Alberta Health Services (AHS) regarding allegations of political interference and potential conflicts of interest within its procurement practices. This comes after a complaint was received on February 6 and has now progressed into a formal investigation, as confirmed by the RCMP in a statement released on Thursday.
The investigation stems from a wrongful dismissal lawsuit filed by the former CEO of Alberta Health Services, Athana Mentzelopoulos, against AHS and the province. Mentzelopoulos claimed she was terminated because she had initiated an investigation and forensic audit into various contracts, particularly concerning contract prices with private surgical companies allegedly linked to government officials. She also alleged that she was dismissed just days before a scheduled meeting with the auditor general to discuss her findings on Alberta’s procurement contracts and deals for private surgical facilities.
Mentzelopoulos further alleged in her lawsuit that she faced interference and pressure from government officials to approve contracts for new chartered surgical facilities and extend a specific surgical group’s contract. Her lawyer, Dan Scott, stated that she welcomes the news of the RCMP investigation and will cooperate with it, as well as the ongoing auditor general’s investigation.
The allegations have prompted investigations by Alberta’s auditor general and a third-party investigation led by former chief judge Raymond E. Wyant. It is important to note that none of the claims made in Mentzelopoulos’s lawsuit have been proven in court, and statements of defense are yet to be filed. Health Minister Adriana LaGrange, who is named in the lawsuit, intends to file a response in the coming weeks.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has maintained that she has not seen any evidence of wrongdoing at Alberta Health Services throughout the controversy. The government has stated that they are unaware of the identity of any party under RCMP investigation but will provide cooperation if requested. NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi expressed his support for the police investigation, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations regarding inflated contracts.
The RCMP investigation is ongoing, and further inquiries have been directed to the police. The developments in this case highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in procurement practices within the healthcare sector. Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.
