In its exchanges with the writer, the university explained that privacy law strictly limits what information it can provide. This includes whether a complaint has been filed against an employee, a complainant’s name, and outcomes related to the process.
Confidentiality is widely accepted as integral to a fair process and yet the Martlet wrote that the university “kept quiet” and didn’t inform students.
This is an unfair characterization. Breaches of confidentiality can negatively impact the process and all parties involved.
As an independent student newspaper, the Martlet can publish what it wants from information provided by the university. However, it is important for your readers to know, as was included in the university’s responses, that several initiatives are underway as the Vikes continually seek to improve the student-athlete experience. These include enhancing student wellness supports; improving program reviews; and seeking best practices on athlete support and disclosure processes and for a safe sport environment.
UVic is proud of its varsity teams and is committed to providing a training environment for its athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers that is free of abuse, harassment or discrimination. If there are allegations of behaviour contrary to UVic’s policies, there are impartial processes in place for resolution and accountability.
Denise Helm
UVic Director of Media Relations and Public Affairs
