Eight people are fired and seven more suspended from their jobs after the City of Winnipeg concluded an investigation into goings on at the Planning, Property and Development (PPD) department.

The investigation was prompted after an undisclosed group hired private detectives and captured hidden camera footage of city employees allegedly running personal errands and taking extended breaks during the work day. The group released the footage through the media in April.

City of Winnipeg interim CAO Mike Ruta said that on top of the firings and suspensions four employees were given letters of reprimand and one employee a non–disiplinary letter.

“We are deeply disappointed to have found there was truth to the allegations. The employee-employer relationship is built on a solid foundation of trust and when that trust is broken, it is difficult to repair,” said Ruta

The city will be reviewing all departments with the help of an outside consultant as a result of this incident. It is expected to include hiring practices, management and structure of each department. It will also consider using technology to track productivity and account for staff time.

© News4.ca 2020