BC group circulates petition demanding WestJet CEO step down
Posted Mar 3, 2016 12:19 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
A British Columbia based group has begun to circulate a petition demanding WestJet CEO Gregg Saretsky step down in the wake of sexual assault allegations within the airline.
Lawyers for a former WestJet flight attendant filed the lawsuit in BC Supreme Court after the corporation allegedly fired her for reporting an assault by one of their pilots.
The petition argues Saretsky is unfit to lead WestJet due to his repeated failure to provide a workplace where claims of sexual assault are adequately investigated and employees are protected.
They want the CEO replaced and the company to immediately update and enforce policies regarding sexual harassment and assault.
“I find it hard to believe that with various investigations, complaints as serious as these, that the CEO is not aware of the situation,” said Emma Pullman, lead campaign strategist. “More to the point, it is the responsibility of the company to create the workplace culture that makes sure these kinds of things don’t happen and employees have a safe place to work.”
Pullman feels they are striking a visceral nerve, with messages of support pouring in for the former flight attendant and adds for many, this reality hits close to home.
She’s hoping through their campaign the women receive the justice they deserve.
WestJet did provide 660 NEWS with the following statement:
“WestJet does not comment on ongoing legal proceedings but confirms it will file a statement of defense. WestJet further confirms its commitment to maintaining a safe and harassment free environment for its employees and guests and takes its obligations in this respect with the utmost seriousness.”
