Prince Edward County Mayor Robert Quaiff. (Photo: Quinte News)
The mayor of Prince Edward County is reacting to allegations of innapropriate conduct against a well-known local vintner.
Norman Hardie was accused in a Globe and Mail article earlier this week of sexual misconduct, related to incidents of inappropriate advances and lewd comments made towards employees.
Mayor Robert Quaiff says he was “saddened and disturbed to read about the allegations” and that that type of behaviour is “unacceptable and runs contrary to the values of Prince Edward County and the local wine industry.”
Quaiff says he commends the local chamber of commerce and wine growers’ association for their “strong and immediate response” of revoking Hardie’s membership.
He says both groups and the municipality remain committed to helping employers understand their responsibilities towards their workers and is encouraging anyone experiencing workplace harassment or unfair compensation, to contact the Ontario Human Rights Commission.
Hardie has denied most of the allegations but does admit to “acting unprofessionally at times”.
No criminal charges have been filed against him.
