Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will be speaking to Sport Minister Kent Hehr about allegations of sexual misconduct made on social media.
During a news conference to wrap up his trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Trudeau was asked about allegations that women felt fearful about getting in the same elevator with Hehr at the Alberta legislature and that Hehr had made unwanted sexually suggestive comments.
Trudeau said he is “unequivocal” in his support for women who come forward with complaints of sexual harassment and assault.
“I haven’t had the opportunity to speak directly with Kent. I will in the coming hours and we will have more to say before the plane lifts off tonight,” he said.
On posts to Twitter, a woman said Hehr made women feel “unsafe” and made verbally suggestive remarks, including “you’re yummy.”
During the news conference, Trudeau also saluted the women who came forward with allegations of sexual misconduct against Ontario Progressive Conservative Leader Patrick Brown, who stepped down overnight while denying any wrongdoing.
Trudeau said all allegations are taken “extremely seriously.”
Saluting courage, leadership
“My thoughts turn immediately to the women who came forward, knowing how difficult it is, it can be, to salute them for their courage and their leadership,” he said. “I certainly hope their example will resonate and that the support of their friends, their families and the community at large remains with them.”
Trudeau is making his way back to Canada Thursday.
He said the forum provided a valuable opportunity to push for “real results” for Canadians by promoting trade and economic prosperity.
Asked why he did not meet with U.S. President Donald Trump, Trudeau said both leaders devoted their time to meeting with world leaders they don’t have a chance to meet frequently with. He said he communicates regularly with Trump.
‘Open lines’ with Trump
“We’ll continue to ensure we have open lines of communication any time we need them,” he said.
On his last day of the forum that began Tuesday, he met with Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai for a panel discussion, and announced Canada will double its commitment to the Global Partnership for Education fund.
During a visit to Ottawa last spring, Yousafzai, an honorary Canadian citizen who survived a Taliban attack in 2012, encouraged Canada to take a global lead in ensuring more girls can go to school.
Earlier on Thursday, Trudeau met with the CEOs of Coca-Cola and IBM.