Ethics and Integrity in the Public Service

Who handles conflict of interest issues for public service employees?

The deputy head of a department or agency is responsible for the administration of the Conflict of Interest Policy for employees.

Does the Ethics and Integrity Commissioner provide information and advice to employees?

Deputy ministers and other senior officials who report to the Ethics and Integrity Commissioner for conflict of interest purposes may seek the Commissioner’s advice on their obligations with regard to executive division conflict of interest or other ethical matters. 

Is there an oath of office for public service employees?

The Civil Service Act requires that all employees of the executive division and the classified division take the oath of office in Schedule II to that Act (below). This act provides that employees of the casual division may be required to take the oath of office.

“I, (A.B.) solemnly and sincerely swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully
and honestly fulfil the duties that devolve upon me by reason of my
employment in the civil service and that I will not, without due authority in that behalf, disclose or make known any matter that comes to my knowledge by reason of such employment. (In the case where an oath is taken add, “So Help Me God”.)”

Who handles disclosure of wrongdoing and whistleblower protection for public service employees?

The Public Interest Disclosure Commissioner is an independent officer appointed by the Legislative Assembly under the Public Interest Disclosure and Whistleblower Protection Act. The Act, which came into force on October 2, 2021, sets out a process for public service employees to disclose wrongdoing, and includes protection from employment-related reprisal caused by the good faith reporting of wrongdoing.