This information is designed to assist employees with understanding and applying the Toronto Public Service By-Law Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality provisions. All members of the public service, including City and applicable agency employees should understand their roles and responsibilities under the Toronto Public Service By-law’s provisions. Read the Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality provisions.


Questions & Answers

When should a potential conflict of interest be disclosed?

  • A conflict of interest should be disclosed as soon as possible.
  • As soon as you become aware of a direct, indirect or a potential conflict of interest, you should disclose it to your immediate supervisor or Ethics Executive.

What are my roles and responsibilities under the provisions?

  • It is your responsibility to be familiar with the Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality provisions.
  • Members of the public service should avoid placing themselves in situations where their private interests may be in conflict with, or be perceived to be in conflict with the interests of the City or Agency.
  • As members of the public service, we take pride in conducting ourselves with personal integrity, ethics, honesty and diligence in performing our duties and ensuring we are protecting the public’s trust and confidence in the public service and the government.

Who should I speak to if I am uncertain about a conflict of interest?

  • Speak to your supervisor, manager, or your Ethics Executive if you are uncertain if you have a conflict of interest. They will be able to guide you in determining if there is a conflict of interest and next steps.

How will my job be impacted if I disclose my conflict of interest?

  • Disclosing your conflict of interest, appropriately and in a timely manner, will not impact your job or employment negatively.
  • Depending on the conflict of interest, your participation in certain duties and responsibilities may be changed temporarily to avoid the conflict or the perception of a conflict of interest.

What happens if I do not disclose my conflict of interest?

  • It is your responsibility to understand the Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality provisions and seek advice from your supervisor, manager or Ethics Executive to ensure you avoid actual or perceived conflicts.
  • Not disclosing your conflict of interest can damage the public’s trust and confidence in government.
  • You may be subject to disciplinary action, including dismissal and, where warranted, legal proceedings.

What are my supervisor’s/ manager’s responsibilities?

  • When you declare your conflict of interest, your supervisor/manager will provide advice on how to address the conflict to ensure you can perform your public service duties in a way that does not contravene the public service values you must uphold.
  • If your manager is unable to answer your question or you require additional advice you may contact your Ethics Executive. Your manager may also refer you to your Ethics Executive.