Updated: 06/23/02
Prime Minister Introduces Ethics Action Plan
In the midst of ongoing allegations of government corruption and conflict of interest, Prime Minister Chretien has outlined an eight-point action plan targeting ethics in the Canadian federal government at both the political and bureaucratic levels. Several measures have been introduced. More will be introduced in the fall of 2002.
Achilles Heel in the Ethics Plan
The Prime Minister has made efforts to add credibility to the role of the Ethics Counsellor.
- The appointment of an Ethics Counsellor will require consultation with opposition parties.
- An Ethics Counsellor can only be dismissed with the agreement of Parliament.
- The Ethics Counsellor will inquire into complaints submitted to his office by any member of parliament.
- The Ethics Counsellor will present an annual report to the Speaker of the House.
In spite of these changes, the Ethics Counsellor still reports directly to the Prime Minister, rather than being an independent watchdog of Parliament. It makes organizational sense, since the actions of Cabinet are the responsibility of the Prime Minister. However, it leaves the appearance that the role of Ethics Counsellor is partisan, and will likely continue to undermine the Prime Minister on ethics questions.
Ethics Measures Introduced
The key governments ethics measures that have been introduced are
- A Guide for Cabinet Ministers which includes advice to Cabinet ministers and ministers of state on issues ranging from ethical conduct to management priorities, and reminders of their constitutional, legal and ethical responsibilities.
- Revised rules for Cabinet Ministers and Crown Corporations. These guidelines reinforce the managerial autonomy of Crown corporations.
- Guidelines on Cabinet Ministers' Personal Political Activities. These rules are directed at Cabinet ministers fundraising for either unofficial or official leadership campaigns to replace Prime Minister Chretien.
Ethics Measures Planned for Fall 2002
Ethics measures planned for the fall of 2002 include:
- the government will try to get support for a code of conduct that will apply to all members of parliament and senators, including an officer reporting to Parliament who will advice MPs and senators on ethics matters.
- changes to the Lobbyists Registration Act
- changes on the financing of political parties and candidates for office
- measures will be introduced to strengthen the ability of senior public servants to manage public funds.
