Industry Canada Values and Ethics Code

Message from the Deputy Ministers

Dear colleagues,

We are pleased to present Industry Canada's first departmental Values and Ethics Code. With its focus on ethical conduct, a respectful and professional workplace, and integrity, the Code epitomizes and defines Industry Canada's commitment to the highest standards of behaviour, as we foster a growing, competitive, knowledge-based Canadian economy.

The Code is a reflection of who we are as public servants, and as a Government of Canada department. The Industry Canada Code is a commitment to respecting the values and expected behaviours of the public sector and the department in all our business actions and decisions.

The Code is a guide for all staff at all levels of the organization. It is designed to help each and every one of us know what standard of conduct is expected, and it calls upon us to fulfill our responsibilities in an ethical manner. It will reinforce Industry Canada's commitment to serve the Canadian public and business responsively, while supporting a work environment in which people are respected.

By exemplifying the ethical behaviours and corporate values described in the Code, you will continue to uphold Industry Canada's tradition of integrity and professionalism in the service of Canada.

John Knubley
Deputy Minister

Marta Morgan
Associate Deputy Minister

Introduction

At Industry Canada, our departmental mission is to foster a growing, competitive, knowledge-based Canadian economy. The department works with Canadians throughout the economy and in all parts of the country to improve conditions for investment, improve Canada's innovation performance, increase Canada's share of global trade and build a fair, efficient and competitive marketplace.

Our program areas include developing industry and technology capability, fostering scientific research, setting telecommunications policy, promoting investment and trade, promoting tourism and small business development, and setting rules and services that support the effective operation of the marketplace.

In our role as federal public servants, we all contribute to fulfilling Industry Canada's mission in all our professional activities. The Industry Canada Values and Ethics Code reflects our commitment and obligation to respect the values and expected behaviours of the public sector and the department in all our business actions and decisions. By being accountable for our values and their integration in our work, we lay the foundation for excellence and integrity at Industry Canada.

Objectives

This Code outlines the values and expected behaviours that guide public servants at Industry Canada in all activities related to their professional duties. By committing to these values and adhering to the expected behaviours, public servants strengthen the ethical culture of the Department, contribute to public confidence in the integrity of all public institutions and contribute to maintaining a healthy and effective work environment.

This Code fulfills the requirement of section 6 of the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act (PSDPA), which requires federal organizations to establish a code of conduct consistent with the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector established by Treasury Board. It was developed in consultation with managers, employees and bargaining agents.

Application

The foundation of the Industry Canada Values and Ethics Code is the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector and the Treasury Board Policy on Conflict of Interest and Post Employment. Both codes and the Treasury Board policy apply to all Industry Canada employees.

Acceptance of these values and adherence to the expected behaviours is a condition of employment for every public servant at Industry Canada, regardless of their level or position. A breach of this Code, these values or behaviours may result in disciplinary measures being taken, up to and including termination of employment.

The Industry Canada Values and Ethics Code came into force on December 10, 2012.