The Editor,
Re. “Sex assault allegation ‘false,’ says Port Moody Mayor Rob Vagramov” (tricitynews.com, March 28).
I believe that it is inappropriate for the Port Moody city council to provide leave of absence with pay to Mayor Rob Vagramov as he faces a charge of sexual assault.
If he were an employee of a business, he would be expected to report to work on the assumption that he is innocent until proven guilty unless the nature of the charge is that he cannot perform his duties.
I see no reason why Mayor Vagramov cannot continue to perform his duties as he has done so since he likely became aware that he was being investigated well before last Thursday’s announcement.
I believe the usual practice is for an employer to provide leave for personal reasons but not with pay.
Should we all be so fortunate that when charged with a criminal act we can stay home and receive all pay and benefits, even though the charge are not related to any work situation.
Also, the mayor, in his statement to the press last week, said he was taking leave so he can devote all his time to fighting the charge and he did not want his work as mayor to be distracted.
I urge all citizens and taxpayers of Port Moody to write to council to protest its having granted paid leave to the mayor.
Judging by what seems to be commonplace, his trial may not be before the courts for a year or more, perhaps even after his term of office is finished. He should report to work or take leave without pay. He should not be treated any differently than would an employee of any business.
Tarry Grieve, Port Moody
