Code of Conduct: Submit a complaint

Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive workplace where concerns are taken seriously and addressed fairly. If you witness or experience behaviour that violates the Code, you have the right to speak up. You are encouraged to raise and resolve concerns with your immediate supervisor and you can also seek guidance from the Centre of Expertise on the Prevention of Conflict, Harassment and Violence.

• To report a suspected breach of the Code of Conduct (misconduct), inform your manager or contact the Centre of Expertise for Values and Ethics or the Internal Disclosure Office
• To report a suspected wrongdoing, contact the Internal Disclosure Office
• You are protected from reprisal if you report misconduct or wrongdoing or participate in an investigation

Recognize reprisal

• Reprisal is any negative action taken against you because you
  • reported wrongdoing or misconduct (formally or informally)
  • participated as a witness in an investigation
  • used a recourse process (for example grievance, complaint, disclosure)
• Reprisal can be direct or indirect, and may not always be obvious, including
  • reassignment, demotion, discipline, or dismissal
  • being passed over for promotions or projects
  • intimidation, coercion, or threats
  • denial of rights or hindered career progression

If you experience reprisal

• Speak with your supervisor or union representative
• Consider formal options to raise concerns or challenge decisions, as appropriate
  • file a grievance pursuant to section 208(1) of the Federal Public Sector Labour Relations Act
  • submit a complaint under section 133 of the Canada Labour Code if you feel that action has been taken against you for having exercised your rights in relation to unsafe work under Part II of the Canada Labour Code
  • file an unfair labour practice complaint under paragraph 190(1)(g) of the Federal Public Sector Labour Relations Act if you feel that action has been taken against you for your union activity or because you exercised your rights under this act (such as grievance rights)
  • if you are excluded or unrepresented, you may file a complaint under the Public Sector Labour Relations Regulations
• Use support services like the Employee and Organization Assistance Program (EOAP), the Ombud for Mental Health

If the reprisal is linked to a protected disclosure

You may file a complaint under section 19.1 of the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act if you experience reprisal because you:

• reported a protected disclosure of wrongdoing under this Act
• participated in an investigation led by the Departmental Oversight Branch or the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner

For more information, refer to the Public Servants Disclosure Protection or contact your internal disclosure officer.