The royal couple learn about the growing procedures from Norman Hardie at the Norman Hardie Winery in Prince Edward County, as part of the 2017 Royal Tour, on June 30. (Photo: David Foot / Quinte News)
A well known Prince Edward County winery owner is facing dozens of allegations of sexual misconduct from former employees and others known to him.
In a front page Globe and Mail article Wednesday morning, 52-year-old Norman Hardie is accused of gross misconduct within his business and outside of it.
Globe and Mail staff interviewed over 50 people for the article.
Three women said they were subject to sexual contact by Hardie while eighteen, and others described lewd comments and being exposed to pornography.
In a letter to the Globe and Mail, Hardie denied most allegations, although he did admit to trying to kiss a former employee.
In the letter Hardie acknowledged that he may have acted unprofessionally at times. Hardie said he was truly sorry if his behaviour hurt anyone.
Many of those interviewed said Hardie’s behaviour was well known in the hospitality industry.
But some of those interviewed praised Hardie for his generosity and his guidance.
Hardie said that since the Globe and Mail investigation, an independent auditor had been hired by his winery to review the workplace environment.
No criminal charges have been laid.
