The president and founder of the Temporary Foreign Workers Association of Canada has responded to allegations that she scammed Fusako Kametani out of a substantial amount of money.

Melissa Holman released the following statement:

To the public,

STATEMENT OF MELISSA HOLMAN June 14, 2012

Given the fantastic allegations against me, I can understand the public's concern, but it is my hope that the truth will prevail. Please remember, these are only allegations and there are two sides to every story. I can assure you that I am not guilty of the charges levied against me.

Fusako Kametani had been in Canada three years before we met and became friends. She planned on appointing me the guardian of her daughter.

No immigration advice was ever given to her by me. The transfer of the two properties was entirely her idea for her personal reasons. The verbal agreement between us was clear that at any time she asked for the properties back, I would return the properties upon her request. This was witnessed by a number of people.

The transfers to me took place with a lawyer present. Six weeks later, she asked for them back and I did so immediately.

These documents were witnessed and are a matter of public record. No police or court action had been commenced at that time. I just did what I had promised upon request. This all happened nearly ten months ago. There was no fraud or scam involved.

Yes, Ms. Kametani gave me money. I never controlled her bank accounts, nor ever asked to do so. Fusako had also expressed interest in opening sister offices of my not for profit organization in Japan, to help with the aftermath of the tsunami. Fusako is a shareholder in my company.

I am devastated by these false accusations. It is my fervent hope that these allegations will not tarnish the reputations of my and other decent humanitarian organizations in Canada helping people.

I am confident I will be acquitted in a court of law, but feel like I have already been judged by the police, some of the press and the public at large. Please let all the facts come to light in the due process of the law before rushing to judgement against me.

My lawyer has advised me not to say any more on this matter at this time

Kind regards,

Melissa Holman

President & Founder

Temporary Foreign Workers Association of Canada