Three senior scientists who worked in the veterinary drugs directorate of Health Canada, where they were involved in drug approvals, have been fired. The three were well known for repeatedly criticizing the department's policies, claiming they felt pressured to approve certain drugs despite concerns they could present a danger to consumers.
Shiv Chopra, Margaret Haydon and Gerard Lambert received letters of termination on Wednesday (July 14). None has spoken publicly about the dismissals; Haydon said any comments on the matter would come from their lawyers.
Steve Hindle, the president of the scientists' union, the Professional Institute of the Public Service (PIPSC), told the CTV television network that the three would “file grievances [and make their case] to the Public Service Staff Relations Board” and might also then “go on to federal court from there.”
A Health Canada spokesman said only: "I can tell you they are no longer employed at ...
