VA intimidation, retaliation toward whistleblowers consistent with allegations in Central Alabama, Roby says
Dothan First
Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Reports of intimidation and retaliation toward “whistleblowers” within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is consistent with allegations from Central Alabama, U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) said Wednesday.

Testifying before a hearing of the House Veterans Affairs Committee on Tuesday, several such “whistleblowers” told shocking stories of harassment and retribution after they came forward to expose fraud, misconduct and mismanagement within the VA. One witness said his attempts to contact the White House about problems were leaked to his manager, who in turn retaliated with punishment.

“I applaud the brave VA employees who could have risked their careers to expose misconduct within the system,” Rep. Roby said. “It is chilling to hear their testimonials about the treatment they received after coming forward. Their description of the culture of intimidation and retaliation toward employees who speak out about problems is consistent with allegations we have received from Central Alabama.

“Acting VA Secretary Sloan Gibson recently said the VA leadership wouldn’t tolerate such behavior, and I certainly hope that is true. However, given how ineffective the VA’s own inspectors have been at investigating complaints, it is unclear who exactly can keep administrators or supervisors accountable.”