Toronto's $92M ferry builder faces forgery charges, allegations of violating Russian sanctions | CBC News

"The Netherlands Public Prosecution Service is prosecuting international shipbuilder Damen for bribery, forgery and money laundering, focusing on a time period between 2006 and January 2017, according to an April news release. The allegations have not been tested in court and a spokesperson for Damen said the company is specifically being charged with forgery, which could have provided third parties with an opportunity for bribery."

"The April news release says the company was also investigated for violations of sanctions concerning goods and technology that could contribute to the military and technological strengthening of Russia and/or the development of the defence and security sector, according to a translation of the announcement in Dutch. Damen spokesperson Robin Middel called that a separate lawsuit regarding the delivery of ship cranes to the Russian fishing industry in early 2022, in an email to CBC News."

"The forgery case could have possible consequences for future tenders, Middel said, if Damen is irrevocably convicted at the conclusion of legal proceedings The City of Toronto has no reason at all to assume any implications for the ferry program in the coming years, Middel said. The company has invested significantly in compliance since 2014 and has been meeting the highest standards in this area for years, Middel said."

The Netherlands Public Prosecution Service is prosecuting international shipbuilder Damen for bribery, forgery and money laundering covering the period from 2006 to January 2017. The allegations remain untested in court. Damen faces a specific forgery charge that could have enabled third-party bribery. Investigations also covered potential sanctions violations involving goods and technology that might strengthen Russia’s military and defence sector, including a separate matter about delivery of ship cranes to the Russian fishing industry in early 2022. The City of Toronto only recently learned of the Dutch charges; the $92-million electric ferry contract is with Damen. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled in Zwolle; the company reports compliance investments since 2014 and notes an irrevocable conviction could affect future tenders, while the city currently expects no program impact.

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