Former CBRM Economic Development Officer, John Whalley, has filed a lawsuit against the CBRM, alleging constructive dismissal.

Whalley resigned 1 year ago in May 2015. At the time, there was speculation that Whalley was uncomfortable with certain activities being undertaken by the CBRM and the Port of Sydney. He discussed these concerns in two CBC Radio interviews.

The lawsuit could potentially reveal new information about internal CBRM discussions related to issues that have led to much controversy in the community.  Whalley is represented by lawyer Blair Mitchell of Halifax.

A timeline of news reports related to Whalley's resignation and lawsuit are included below.  New information will be added to this post as it is revealed (click the FOLLOW button to be notified of updates).

According to an article published by Nova Scotia Law Firm Cox & Palmer

"Constructive dismissals are distinct from a regular form of dismissal in that they do not actually involve a dismissal per se. Rather, constructive dismissal refers to a situation where an employer unilaterally makes a substantial change to an essential term of an employee’s contract of employment. The substantial change is thus treated as the employer no longer holding up its end of the employment contract and thus the contract is breached and the employee is considered to be dismissed."

Former CBRM economic development officer files suit against regional municipality
Cape Breton Post, May 27, 2016

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John Whalley Resigns
CBC Radio, June 1, 2015

The Cape Breton Regional Municipality's Economic Development Officer has resigned from his key position. Reporter Joan Weeks spoke with John Whalley over the weekend and we'll hear what he has to say about why he suddenly quit after 18 years on the job with the CBRM.

Listen to interview

CBRM economic manager quits ahead of major announcement

CTV News (Video), June 1, 2015

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John Whalley - Ready to Talk
CBC Radio, June 16, 2015 
Two weeks ago, John Whalley resigned when his responsibilities for Port development were removed. He expressed concern that some deals with private companies violate the Municipal Affairs Act. Today he sat down with Joan Weeks to provide details.

Listen to interview