Values and Ethics
Definition
The Value of Stewardship is defined in the ESDC Code of Conduct as: "ESDC employees are entrusted to use and care for public resources responsibly, for both the short and long-term. ESDC employees are expected to use resources responsibly by:
- Effectively and efficiently using the public money, property and resources managed by them;
- Considering the present and long-term effects that their actions have on people and the environment;
- Acquiring, preserving and sharing knowledge and information as appropriate."
What Employees Need to Know
All employees are held accountable for adhering to the Values and Ethics Code and the ESDC Code of Conduct. A breach or violation of the Codes, or values, or expected behaviours, or related laws/policies/procedures, may lead to administrative or disciplinary measures being taken, up to and including termination of employment.
Employee Roles and Responsibilities
Manager's role: Serve as role models for staff and demonstrate key leadership competencies that reflect values, standards and ethical behaviour.
Manager's responsibilities: Create the proper working environment to encourage a values-based culture for employees. Ensure that employees are familiar with the Values and Ethics Code and the ESDC Code of Conduct; Provide advice to employees on values and ethics and to seek guidance as required; Inform employees on how to disclose incidents of wrongdoing or breaches of the ESDC Code of Conduct; Ensure that employees understand the Value of Stewardship and their role in safeguarding the confidentiality of protected/classified information.
Employee's role: Conduct themselves in accordance with the values of the public sector and expected behaviours. Employees are entrusted to use and care for public resources responsibly; public resources includes finances, public money, property, human resources, government property and information.
Employee's responsibilities: Become familiar with the Values and Ethics Code and the ESDC Code of Conduct; Commit to the Values of the Public Sector and adhere to the expected behaviours as stated in the ESDC Code of Conduct; Understand the Value of Stewardship and safeguard the confidentiality of protected/classified information.