Ford Chief Urges Caution Following Police Referral to Company
Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s administration has referred the findings of a forensic audit on a mental health services company to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). The company, Get A-Head, has received approximately $40 million from the provincial government. This includes over $32 million from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities since 2020 and an additional $7.5 million in grants from the Skills Development Fund overseen by Labour Minister David Piccini.
Forensic Audit Findings
The forensic audit raised significant concerns following a routine audit in 2023. These concerns led the government to take decisive action. The audit’s results prompted a recommendation to involve the OPP, which was executed swiftly.
Government Response
Patrick Sackville, Chief of Staff for Premier Ford, informed government employees via email to avoid contact with Get A-Head, its parent organization Keel Digital Solutions, and any associated representatives. He emphasized the need to refrain from discussions regarding these entities due to the ongoing investigation.
Funding and Controversies
Get A-Head, which offers “AI-driven” mental health services for students and police officers, was acquired by Keel Digital Solutions in 2022 and is now operating under the brand Keel Mind. Additional funding includes $1.85 million from the Ministry of Health. Ford’s administration is currently reviewing all financial transactions with the company.
Political Backlash
Opposition parties have called for Minister Piccini’s resignation, questioning the integrity of the Skills Development Fund. Auditor-General Shelley Spence criticized the fund’s operations in a recent report, claiming the distribution of $1.3 billion in grants lacked fairness and transparency. This scrutiny has intensified public and political scrutiny on Piccini.
Lobbyist Connections
Michael Rudderham, a lobbyist linked to Get A-Head, has come under scrutiny for his connections with Minister Piccini. He extended a personal invitation for Piccini to attend his wedding and has contributed financially to the Ontario Progressive Conservatives.
Official Statements
Keel Digital Solutions has stated that they cooperated fully with the forensic audit and expressed concerns about the process and findings. Auditors reportedly made multiple misunderstandings regarding the company’s nonprofit status and tax regulations. Despite the forensic audit’s ongoing nature, Get A-Head continued to receive government funding.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding Get A-Head and its funding from the Ontario government represents a complex interplay of politics, finance, and governance. As the OPP investigates, further developments are expected as Ford’s government navigates the fallout from this controversy.
