Calgary has announced its new Integrity Commissioner.
Ellen-Anne O’Donnell, former Chair of the Alberta Law Enforcement Review Board, will serve in the role. Her appointment follows the departure of prior commissioner Meryl Whittaker.
“I am honoured to accept this appointment, which will allow me to meaningfully serve Calgarians and the City of Calgary,” said O’Donnell, who brings with her 30 years of legal experience.
“I will apply my extensive expertise, commitment, and dedication to the highest ethical standards, in fulfilling my responsibilities as the Integrity Commissioner.”
In 2016, Calgary became the first city in Western Canada to hire an integrity commissioner. The role investigates and adjudicates ethics and integrity matters on council.
O’Donnell holds a degree from Osgoode Hall Law School, York University and McGill University and has held several roles including with the Criminal Injuries Review Board, the Canadian Association of Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement and as a Queen’s Bench Dispute Resolution officer.
“The Integrity Commissioner’s role is necessary to ensure City Council remains accountable to the people we serve,” said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek.
“We are fortunate to have someone as qualified as Ms. O’Donnell in this role and I’m confident in the trust she will build with Calgarians.”
