Ontario Police Investigate Company after Skills Development Fund Audit

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are currently investigating a company following a forensic audit of the Skills Development Fund. This company, Get A-Head, received approximately $40 million in government funding, which included millions from the controversial training program.

Government Response to Audit Findings

The Ontario government has sent the audit results to the OPP. It is also reviewing all payments made to Get A-Head and considering further actions based on the findings. The company provides an AI-driven virtual mental health counseling service, primarily used by students and police officers. In 2022, it was acquired by Keel Digital Solutions.

Company Background

• Name: Get A-Head
• Funding Received: Approx. $40 million from provincial sources
• Affiliation: Acquired by Keel Digital Solutions in 2022
• Services: AI-driven virtual mental health counseling platform

Keel Digital Solutions has received payments from both the Ministry of Colleges and Universities and the Ministry of Health over the past five years. Despite being involved in ongoing audits, the company continues to receive funding from the government.

Concerns Raised in the Audit

A recent routine audit in 2023 identified concerns regarding the external service provider, leading to a comprehensive forensic audit. This second audit revealed irregularities, prompting authorities to pass the findings to the OPP within a day.

Political Controversies Surrounding Funding

The political landscape surrounding the Skills Development Fund has been turbulent. Labour Minister David Piccini’s connections to Get A-Head have drawn scrutiny. Reports indicate that Piccini attended social events alongside key individuals linked to Keel Digital Solutions, raising questions about the impartiality of the funding distributions.

Criticism and Calls for Accountability

Critics, including NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Liberal MPP John Fraser, have used the incident to call for Piccini’s resignation. They have emphasized the need for transparency and fairness in how the Skills Development Fund is administered. Concerns have also arisen about how the selection process for grants may have favored certain organizations, neglecting higher-ranked applicants.

The situation has highlighted broader issues within the management of the Skills Development Fund, raising important questions regarding accountability and oversight.

Funding Statistics

As this investigation unfolds, it remains crucial to ensure that taxpayer money is allocated responsibly and in a transparent manner.