CUPE Ontario president on paid leave amid investigation into complaint

Fred Hahn, President of the Ontario Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), speaks at a press conference to voice the opposition to the "back-to-work" legislation by the Ontario PC government, at Queen's Park, in Toronto, Monday, July 16, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Mark Blinch

The president of CUPE Ontario is on paid leave as a result of an investigation into “workplace climate allegations” made by a CUPE Ontario staff member earlier this month.

The union confirmed to CTV News Toronto that Fred Hahn, the outgoing president of CUPE Ontario, is on leave for the duration of the independent investigation.

“This is a routine procedural step and is not a disciplinary measure,” a statement sent to CTV News Toronto read.

“CUPE Ontario at all times seeks to ensure a safe workplace for all staff.”

The complaint, the union said, was brought forward April 13 and Hahn’s leave began the same day.

The union did not elaborate on the details of the allegations, saying only that no further comment will be provided until the investigation is complete.

Hahn, they noted, remains the president of CUPE Ontario.

Earlier this year, Hahn confirmed that he would not be seeking re-election as the president of the union at the CUPE Ontario convention in May.

A new president will be sworn in next month.