Flagging Wrongdoing

When something seems wrong: Think it through

Making the decision to flag or disclose wrongdoing is based on many factors. Each situation is unique and should be considered in light of its own circumstances. Below are four questions to help you reflect on and decide whether to disclose wrongdoing. The questions are intended to help you weigh all options in order to make an informed decision.

Do NOT investigate the situation yourself.

Investigations into employee wrongdoing are undertaken by the Senior Disclosure Officer or the Public Service Integrity Commissioner . This ensures that a consistent and objective approach is taken when gathering evidence.

Four questions to ask yourself

1. Do you think something is wrong? Check the facts

Before taking action, ask yourself…

  • What facts or documentation do I have to support a disclosure of potential wrongdoing?
  • Would another person who knows these facts think that this is potential wrongdoing?
  • Does the activity breach any federal, provincial or organizational codes, policies or rules?
  • Is it possible to address this situation through internal processes?

The Office of Values and Ethics’ iService page "Where to go for Help or Support?" provides a comprehensive list of resources available to employees within the department.

When in doubt, do not hesitate to contact the Senior Disclosure Officer.


2. Does your concern constitute a wrongdoing under the Public Servant Disclosure Protection Act? Keep in mind the public interest

Ask yourself…

  • Do I believe that the wrongdoing is detrimental to the public interest?

Disclosures of wrongdoing under the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act (the Act), must meet one or more of the following definitions.

  • A contravention of an Act of Parliament or of the legislature of a province or any regulations made under any such Act;
  • A misuse of public funds or a public asset;
  • A gross mismanagement in the public sector;
  • An act or omission that creates a substantial threat and specific danger to the life, health or safety of persons, or to the environment, other than a danger that is inherent in the performance of the duties or functions of a public servant;
  • A serious breach of a code of conduct (established by Treasury Board or by an organization, as required by the Act);
  • Knowingly directing or counselling a person to commit a wrongdoing as defined above.

When in doubt, do not hesitate to contact the Senior Disclosure Officer.


3. Would it help to talk in confidence with your family and trusted friends? Use your support network

Ask yourself…

  • What are the potential consequences of my disclosure on my life and on those around me?
  • Have I talked in confidence to my family, close friends or other significant persons in my life?
  • Do I have the support I need from my colleagues?
  • Are there others who would consider disclosing with me?

When in doubt, do not hesitate to contact the Senior Disclosure Officer.


4. What are your options for flagging an issue or making a protected disclosure of wrongdoing?  Know your options

Ask yourself…

  • Who do I feel comfortable approaching if I want to make a disclosure?

Remember…

  • You can consult with the internal sources listed under question 1 for advice and guidance.
  • You can consult ESDC’s internal procedures on how to make an internal disclosure
  • For disclosures under the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act, you can also consult the Office of the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner in complete confidentiality prior to deciding whether to disclose, and whether to do so internally or externally.

Who to approach to make a protected disclosure of wrongdoing under the Public Servant Disclosure Protection Act

My Supervisor / Manager

I can go directly to my supervisor/ manager to make an internal disclosure.

My Senior Disclosure Officer

I can find more information about my Senior Disclosure Officer.

The Office of the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner

I can go directly to PSIC at any time. I do not have to exhaust internal mechanisms before making a disclosure to the Office.

If the matter involves a substantial and specific danger to the life, health or safety of persons, dial 911 and inform the department’s security. Otherwise, it is recommended to follow the disclosure process rather than contacting a police department.