Dear TMSU Community,
We are writing on behalf of the TMSU Board of Directors to share an important update on the March 2025 election and an ongoing investigation, conducted by MNP LLP, into a series of concerns raised in recent months.
Back in mid-December 2024, an anonymous individual began sending emails with allegations involving TMSU staff, executives, and Board members. In response, the Board acted quickly.
On December 27, 2024, we passed a motion delegating oversight of these issues to the TMSU Board Conduct Committee, and authorizing TMSU’s long-time external legal counsel, St. Lawrence Barristers P.C., the authority to retain independent investigators to look into the matter. We took this step because we take these matters seriously and are committed to accountability.
Soon after, MNP LLP was brought on to carry out an independent investigation. On April 4, 2025, the Board Conduct Committee received an interim update from MNP LLP.
Based on that update, and following legal advice, the Board Conduct Committee made the difficult decision to administratively suspend several individuals with pay while the investigation continues; this decision was confirmed by the Board of Directors on April 8th, again with the benefit of a briefing from MNP and the service of legal counsel.
To date there have been no findings of wrongdoing; the investigation is still ongoing. Nevertheless, these are serious steps, and we did not take them lightly. We can share that, based on the investigation to date, TMSU is communicating with both the University and the police in respect to this matter.
The Board of Directors has also passed a resolution declaring the March 2025 election null and void. Unfortunately, we’ve reached the conclusion that the election process that has unfolded to date was deeply compromised and that any results cannot be considered legitimate. We have also come to the conclusion that, at this point in time, due to circumstances beyond TMSU’s control, the organization would not be able to run a new fair and transparent election.
Board members who are not currently suspended will stay in their roles until their terms end or new directors are appointed.
Once the MNP LLP investigation is complete, TMSU will determine what, if any, further actions need to take place. We will also at that time provide as fulsome a report as possible to our Members and stakeholders.
In the meantime, and with guidance from legal counsel, we will be appointing a new, experienced Interim Executive Director to help maintain continuity and provide stability. It is our intention that the Interim Executive Director will undertake a process to appoint Board and Executive Members. The focus for everyone must be on rebuilding trust and doing what’s right for our organization and its members.
This temporary structure will stay in place while we work on the deeper reforms needed to ensure the next election is fair and free from outside interference.
We know this is a lot to take in. Our goal is to be as transparent as possible as we work through this. We will continue to communicate closely with the University and other authorities as necessary and appropriate, and will also continue to keep you informed as we move forward.
For any inquiries, please send an email to communications@yourtmsu.ca.
– TMSU Board of Directors