A shadow of suspicion has fallen over a company receiving provincial funding, triggering a full investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police. The probe centers on Keel Digital Solutions and potential “irregularities” discovered in payments received from a different government branch.
The investigation was prompted by a routine audit in 2023 that flagged concerns, leading to a more in-depth forensic audit. The findings of that second, comprehensive review were serious enough to warrant referral to the OPP just 24 hours after completion, and all associated payments are now under intense scrutiny.
Keel Digital Solutions has been a focal point of debate at the legislature, particularly as a recipient of funds from the controversial $2.5-billion Skills Development Fund. The company secured approximately $7.5 million in grants for a mental health program aimed at first responders.
The situation is further complicated by allegations of political interference. Reports suggest a close friend of Labour Minister David Piccini served as a lobbyist for Keel Digital Solutions, fueling calls for his resignation from opposition parties.
An auditor general’s report revealed significant involvement from the minister’s office in selecting projects under the Skills Development Fund, often prioritizing applicants who had received lower rankings from internal bureaucrats. Keel Digital Solutions was specifically identified as one such recipient.
The core of the controversy lies in a perplexing contradiction: one ministry continued to provide funding to Keel Digital Solutions even while another ministry was actively auditing the company due to existing concerns. Critics question the logic of continuing business with an entity under investigation.
Keel Digital Solutions maintains its innocence, asserting full compliance with all laws and contractual obligations. The company’s COO expressed confidence in a swift resolution and anticipates an apology from the government upon the investigation’s conclusion.
The auditor general’s broader assessment of the Skills Development Fund paints a troubling picture, labeling it as lacking in fairness, transparency, and accountability. The report highlighted a pattern of lower-scoring applicants gaining approval after engaging lobbying firms.
Despite the criticisms, the Labour Minister defends the fund, citing its success in training over 700,000 people and helping more than 100,000 find employment within a 60-day timeframe. However, the questions surrounding the selection process and Keel Digital Solutions remain unanswered.
Opposition leaders are demanding accountability, with some directly calling for the minister’s dismissal. The unfolding investigation promises to reveal the extent of any wrongdoing and potentially reshape the future of the Skills Development Fund.
