If you are a public sector employee and you are thinking about making a disclosure or a complaint of reprisal, you can contact us at 1-800-667-9787 to seek advice before doing so.

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Here are some questions that we are commonly asked. You are welcome to contact us to discuss these or any other questions you may have about making a disclosure or complaint of reprisal.

I am concerned about something that is happening at work, but how do I know if it would qualify as a wrongdoing under The Public Interest Disclosure Act?

A wrongdoing under the Act could be a contravention of a statute or regulation; an action or omission that creates a substantial and specific danger to the life, health or safety of any person (other than danger inherent to the work), or to the environment; gross mismanagement of public funds or assets; or directing or counselling a person to commit a wrongdoing. If you have information about a possible wrongdoing and you have questions, you are welcome to contact us to seek advice before you decide whether to make a disclosure.

 

If I make a disclosure, how can I be sure that I won’t be identified?  

We do our work confidentially and will take steps to protect your identity. You are always welcome to discuss your concerns with us before you make a disclosure. We can help you decide what risks are involved and explain the protections that are in place so you can make an informed decision.

 

If I make a disclosure, how does that prevent reprisals from being made against me?

The Public Interest Disclosure Act prohibits reprisals. A person found guilty of reprisal is liable to a fine of up to $10,000. Only the Commissioner can take complaints of reprisal. This helps to ensure that these complaints will be taken seriously and reviewed independently.

 

Can I make a disclosure to you and to my designated officer at the same time?  

You can, but it may not be practical for both them and us to investigate the same matter at the same time. We would need to review the circumstances and determine the most appropriate way to proceed.