BCNU Statement on Legal Action by Gayle Duteil

In response to today's action taken by Ms. Gayle Duteil, the BC Nurses' Union (BCNU) is disappointed that Ms. Duteil has chosen to go to the media and the courts before availing herself of available internal processes. The legal action is a waste of union members' money and inaccurate.

Following an independent investigation and after reviewing relevant evidence, the governing Council of BCNU expressed a vote of no confidence in Ms. Duteil on April 28 and declared that she has ceased to be a Member in good standing. The effect of which is that Ms. Duteil is ineligible to remain in office. Further, at the annual convention in April, the Union held a full-day in-camera information and Q&A session with 500 delegates to discuss and present evidence that led to Council's decision.

Under the constitution and bylaws of BCNU, she is able to appeal the April 28 decision (Article 2.12 of the Union's bylaws which would have her appeal heard by a Board of her own peers).

Umar Sheikh
Chief Executive Officer, BCNU