Reference Number: PSDPA2020-0017
Organization: Global Affairs Canada
File Identification Number: PSDPA2020-0017
File Identification Date: 2021-02-24
Findings and Conclusions: a gross mismanagement in the public sector; a serious breach of a code of conduct established under section 5 or 6
Case Description: The Global Affairs Canada Senior Officer for Internal Disclosure (SOID) received a disclosure of wrongdoing under the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act, alleging wrongdoing under section 8 (c) (gross mismanagement) and (e) a serious breach of a Code of Conduct), and reporting that the spouse of an executive posted abroad frequently raised their voice, criticising the work being done. In addition, the employee was asked to perform personal domestic services that went beyond those for which the employee was hired for supporting official representation. The investigation found that the executive condoned the spouse’s behavior when formally appraising the Official Residence employee as not meeting the work objectives on the basis that the employee did not perform the additional personal domestic services to the level expected. It was determined that the cumulative effect constituted gross mismanagement in the public sector. As a public servant, and more importantly as an executive posted abroad, there is a greater responsibility to ensure every person is treated with respect and fairness; value diversity; understand and appreciate cultural differences; help to create and maintain a safe and healthy workplace that is free from harassment and discrimination. The investigation found that these values were not adhered to.
Recommendations and Corrective Measures: The Senior Officer for Internal Disclosure (SOID) recommended that a disciplinary process be conducted to address the founded wrongdoings and corrective measures have been taken accordingly.