Human rights complaint dismissed; restricting diabetic police officer's duties was justified for public safety.
The complainant, a police officer with insulin-dependent diabetes, alleged discrimination and harassment based on handicap after the respondents placed him on restricted duties (prohibiting him from carrying a firearm or driving a police vehicle).
The Board of Inquiry found that between 1981 and 1984, the complainant's diabetes was uncontrolled, resulting in several severe hypoglycemic reactions while on duty.
The respondents' decision to restrict his duties was made in good faith to protect the safety of the public and the officer.
The Board concluded that the complainant was incapable of performing the essential duties of a police officer during that period, and the respondents reasonably accommodated him by maintaining his employment with full pay on restricted duties.
The complaint was dismissed.
Barnard v. Fort Frances (Town) Commissioners of Police (No.2), 1987 CanLII 8507
