As a public office holder, you and your family members may be offered gifts or other advantages by a variety of people and in a range of situations.
Whether or not you can accept them is governed by the Conflict of Interest Act. In this video, I will explain what makes a gift unacceptable under the Act.
WHAT IS AN UNACCEPTABLE GIFT?
Simply put, a gift is unacceptable if it does not pass the reasonable person test: i.e., could a reasonable person think that the gift was given to influence you in the exercise of an official power, duty or function?
For example, you cannot accept:
- a gift from someone who is registered to lobby you or your office
- a gift from someone whose interests could be affected by a decision you may have to make
- a gift from someone who has had or may have dealings with your office
- a gift from someone affected by programs, policies or regulations controlled by your office
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE OFFERED AN UNACCEPTABLE GIFT?
You must refuse it.
You may not accept an unacceptable gift indirectly, either. This means nobody else, including your staff, may accept it on your behalf.
If you have already accepted an unacceptable gift, you should return it immediately.
You cannot give the unacceptable gift to someone else, redirect or donate it.
MORE INFORMATION
Consult our website for more information.
If you have any doubts about a gift that is being offered to you, consult your advisor in our Office.