Political Rights for Public Servants: A Federal Perspective
Author(s)
Gallant, Edgar
Abstract
Partisan political activities that would damage the real or perceived political neutrality of public service should not be permitted among Canadian public employees. Such restrictions assure that the government receives objective information and advice from its workers, protects all Canadians’ right to fair and equal treatment from public servants, and ensures that public employees are not subjected to partisan interference as they carry out their duties. It is suggested that Parliament clearly enunciate a code of conduct for public servants and provide a mandate for a politically independent agency to develop appropriate guidelines. A list is provided of politically partisan activities that should be avoided.
