New Regulations and Policy for Disclosure of Wrongdoing

PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION--New Regulations and Policy for Disclosure of Wrongdoing

Provincial government employees now have a clearly defined process for reporting any wrongdoing they may encounter in their workplace. New provincial regulations and policy, which are in effect today, Sept. 17, provide clear steps to follow and protection for employees who report unethical or illegal activity.

"We want government employees to know that they are strongly encouraged to bring forward any concerns about wrongdoing," said Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, Minister of Human Resources. "The new regulations and policy clarify both the rights and obligations of employees and the employer in disclosing wrongdoing, should wrongdoing occur."

The process outlined in the policy includes seeking advice from the conflict of interest commissioner and contacting the ombudsman.

"We wanted to ensure that our employees feel they are able to report wrongdoing in good faith without fear of reprisal. We also wanted a process that could be easily communicated and followed," said Richard Nurse, public service commissioner. "Having the ability to go to the ombudsman with a concern should alleviate these fears."

The regulations and policy allow government to expand upon existing legislation such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Ombudsman Act, Human Rights Act and Civil Service Act, to protect direct employees of government who report wrongdoing.

The minister of human resources will file a report on complaints of wrongdoing to the House of Assembly each year.