URegina professor found liable in defamation case over book criticism

A University of Regina professor has been found liable for defamation and interference with contractual relations after calling a journalist’s book “racist garbage” in a 2017 Facebook post. The book, which challenges the findings of the Neil Stonechild inquiry, was the subject of public criticism by Dr Michelle Stewart. CBC reports that Stewart had not read it and was contacting venues to encourage cancellation of signing events. The Regina Court of King’s Bench ruled that Stewart’s actions were reckless and damaging. Author Candis McLean sought $165.6K in damages and was awarded $6K, writes SaskToday.