The Ontario government has filed a lawsuit against a company it contracted to run a student mental health program, alleging fraudulent misrepresentation and seeking to recoup more than $25
million in public money.
The province is suing Keel Digital Solutions, a company tied to the controversial Skills Development Fund, for alleged issues with a different contract it had with the Ministry of Colleges and Universities.
Ontario Provincial Police are also investigating the results of an audit on Keel’s funding from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities after a referral from the province.
The company is vigorously denying the allegations and says it will file a counterclaim.
Labour Minister and Northumberland-Peterborough South MPP David Piccini was under scrutiny by an Auditor’s Report released late last year that stated his office was heavily involved in selecting projects to receive funding under the $2.5-billion skills training program.
It also suggested that money was handed out to applicants receiving low scores without providing proper documentation.
Both Piccini and Premier Doug Ford defended the funding stream, saying it has helped thousands of people find jobs.
None of the allegations have been proven in court.
(with files from the Canadian Press)
