Special rapporteur David Johnston’s office hired crisis communications firm Navigator
CTV
Special rapporteur David Johnston has hired crisis communications firm Navigator, his office confirmed on Friday.
Canada's special rapporteur on foreign interference has hired crisis communications firm Navigator, his office confirmed on Friday.
In an email to CTV News, a spokesperson for special rapporteur David Johnston explained that Navigator was hired at the start of Johnston's mandate "to provide communications advice and support."
"In accordance with the Terms of Reference and Treasury Board policies, the Independent Special Rapporteur is authorized to incur necessary expenses to conduct an independent review," spokesperson Valérie Gervais said. "Navigator has had no involvement in the (special rapporteur)'s investigation or the development of his conclusions, and has not been privy to any classified materials."
Toronto-based Navigator is a public relations, lobbying and crisis management firm. Its slogan is "When you can't afford to lose” and the firm has developed a reputation for steering notable Canadians through high-profile scandals—at high prices.
Past clients battling sexual abuse allegations, for example, have included Hockey Canada and disgraced former CBC host Jian Ghomeshi. Former Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly also hired Navigator during the Freedom Convoy in early 2022 to help with messaging while facing criticism for how he handled the weeks-long protest.
Gervais says Navigator has been responsible for media interview planning, social media analysis, and drafting communications material like press releases.
Ottawa-based communications firm RKESTRA --- which Gervais is the founder and CEO of --- was also hired to provide media relations support, Johnston’s office said. Johnston has additionally retained law firm Torys LLP and partner Sheila Block.
