TRUFA says academic freedom its main concern during investigation
KAMLOOPS — The faculty association at Thompson Rivers University has been quiet following the suspension of one of its members, Derek Pyne, who is accusing that his colleagues are publishing their works in flawed journals.
The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) is investigating the claims TRU is suppressing academic freedom after pyne spoke out. President of the Thompson Rivers University Faculty Association (TRUFA) Tom Friedman says the association is co-operating with the investigation and says if it this is the case, it’s a huge concern.
Since Derek Pyne was suspended by the university in July for “defamatory language and accusations,” the faculty association that represents him has been working behind the scenes on his behalf.
“We’ve taken action. It’s action that we would normally take for any of our members facing that kind of disciplinary action by the university,” said TRU Faculty Assocation President Tom Friedman.