Federal Officials Ignored Auditor’s Call to Report Suspicious $160-Million Contract to RCMP

Federal officials have reportedly ignored calls from an auditor to refer a suspicious $160-million contract to the RCMP for investigation. The auditor, who was involved in a federal program prioritizing Indigenous companies, produced a report alleging that a large nurse staffing agency exploited its Indigenous partner and submitted fraudulent documents. Despite the auditor's substantial evidence and recommendation to involve the RCMP, federal officials chose not to act, citing concerns about potential troubles.

The contract in question was an eight-year agreement to deliver nursing services in remote Indigenous communities. The auditor's findings led to the removal of the joint venture from the Indigenous Business Directory managed by Indigenous Services Canada.

This case highlights ongoing issues within federal procurement practices and raises questions about accountability and transparency in handling allegations of fraud.