Robert Filmer indicated he plans to return to the Qualicum Beach council table, but it's not clear when that will happen. (Facebook)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

bullying report

External review rejects discrimination, bullying allegations by Qualicum Beach councillor

Feb 10, 2021 | 1:57 PM

QUALICUM BEACH — A third-party report examining mistreatment allegations from a Qualicum Beach town councillor showed no evidence of discrimination, bullying or harassment at the hands of his council colleagues.

The report, unanimously released by council during an in-camera meeting on Monday, Feb. 8, did reveal strained relations on council. Coun. Robert Filmer publicly alleged he was the victim of a “toxic, unsafe, unkind and unwelcoming” work environment and would take two months off.

The report by Innova Strategy Group outlined no evidence of discrimination against Filmer, a publicly gay councillor, in relation to a series of council decisions and interactions in 2019 and 2020. These decisions included a rainbow crosswalk which a councillor voted against and comments regarding Filmer’s sexual orientation.

Filmer, 22, issued a statement on his public Facebook page late on Tuesday, Feb 9 questioning the report’s conclusions and accused council of victim shaming as opposed to improving their relationship.

“It became clear to me that some of my fellow Councillors gave a pattern of facts that does not square with my notes or memory. Therefore, I was pleased to vote for the release of the investigator’s report because I am more than happy to have a full discussion with the public about this important issue,” Coun. Filmer said.

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Filmer signaled he intends to return to his council duties when unresolved issues are dealt with.

NanaimoNewsNOW is awaiting a response from Filmer to clarify what conditions need to be met before he’ll return to his role as a Qualicum Beach town councillor.

Mayor Brian Weise told NanaimoNewsNOW he supports and welcomes Filmer’s return as soon as he’s able and continues wishing him the very best, but declined to comment further.

A Town of Qualicum Beach news release regarding the report’s findings signed by mayor Weise encouraged Filmer to issue a public apology.

Qualicum Beach council currently only involves three members: mayor Weise, along with councillors Teunis Westbroek and Scott Harrison.

The Town intends to call a by-election once Filmer returns in order to fill Adam Walker’s seat, who was elected to serve as the region’s MLA in last fall’s provincial election.

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