Statement from Dr. Nancy Whitmore

As the new registrar of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, I was very concerned and troubled to learn of Ms. Henderson, Ms. Corriveau and Ms. Gravelle’s experiences over 30 years ago.

Because of the now distant timeframe, we are very challenged in understanding exactly what happened. Our records show that at the time, the College was informed by the lawyers who were prosecuting the case that the patients were not prepared to testify at a contested hearing, which impeded the College's ability to proceed. Unfortunately, this does not reflect the experience and memories of the three women who have come forward.

I want to apologize to Ms. Henderson, Ms. Corriveau and Ms. Gravelle for their experience. Should a case similar to this come to the CPSO today, the CPSO would make every effort to ensure complainants are fully supported throughout the process.