OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Feb. 14, 2013) - Today, the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation, made the following statement about a former Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) employee who after his departure from CIDA worked on a CIDA-funded project:

"It has come to my attention that a former Canadian International Development Agency employee may have been in a conflict of interest."

"I am deeply concerned about this issue, which is why I am immediately referring this matter to the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner for review."

"Until further notice, future payments for this particular project will be withheld," said Minister Fantino.