[LINK] "Liberal MPs Scott Andrews, Massimo Pacetti suspended from caucus amid harassment allegations

[rfmcdonald]

This came as a surprise. Good for Trudeau that he reacted, at least.

Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau has suspended ethics critic Scott Andrews and Quebec MP Massimo Pacetti from the party's caucus after two New Democrat MPs alleged they were harassed.

Trudeau was informed last week of allegations against the MPs, according to a letter distributed by party whip Judy Foote. The party referred the allegations to House Speaker Andrew Scheer for an independent investigation.

Both MPs deny the allegations, but have been suspended pending resolution.

The letter refers to the allegations being about "personal misconduct."

Trudeau gave no additional details when questioned by reporters after the party's weekly caucus meeting. He didn't answer questions about whether the alleged misconduct was sexual harassment, when it happened, or the exact nature of the allegations.

"I am aware of how difficult it is for people to come forward. I believe strongly that those of us in positions of authority have a duty to act upon allegations of this nature," Trudeau said.

"It's 2014 — we have a duty to protect and encourage individuals in these situations to come forward. The action must be fair but decisive. It must be sensitive to all affected parties but, recognizing how difficult it is to do so, it must give the benefit of the doubt to those who come forward."