Update on Internal Audit investigation

Dear members of the Macdonald Campus community,

I know that this week’s news of construction-related classroom closures in the Raymond building has made for a frustrating start to the new academic year for many of you. It is especially disappointing given the ongoing disruptions the community has experienced as a result of construction work.

I want to assure you that McGill’s senior leadership is aware of the problems and remains focused on resolving them.

Last spring, I tasked McGill’s Internal Audit unit with conducting a thorough investigation into the events leading to, and following, the detection of asbestos in the Raymond, Barton, and Macdonald-Stewart Buildings in the winter of 2023, which resulted in extended building closures.

Today, I can share with you that the investigation has concluded and the Internal Audit team is preparing to deliver its final report in the coming days to Principal Deep Saini and Maryse Bertrand, Chair of the University’s Board of Governors.

We expect the full report, together with the University’s initial response to its findings and recommendations, to be released during the week of September 18. The publication will be followed by Town Hall meetings to inform both the Macdonald and the wider McGill community about the substance of the report and answer your questions.

This investigation is an important step to identify the changes needed for preventing construction-related disruptions in the future and maintaining a safe learning and work environment for everyone.

In the meantime, I want to thank everyone in the Macdonald Campus community for your continued patience and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Christopher Manfredi

Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic)