Conflict of Interest Policy

This policy explains what conflict of interest is, how to avoid it, and how it will be resolved.

Definitions

Volunteer: members of Foundations Learning & Skills Saskatchewan Board of Directors and Committees, Tutors, and Learners

Staff: a person who is a current employee of Foundations.

Conflict of Interest: Any situation where a volunteer or staff person attempts to promote a private or personal interest for himself/herself or some other person, which results or appears to result in interference of his/her responsibilities with the organization, or a gain or an advantage by virtue of his/her position with the organization.

Potential Conflict Situations

• Membership in another group which could influence Board policy;
• Participation in a decision which results in personal financial gain or advantage;
• Ownership or shares in a company which will profit from a decision or tender;
• Participation in a decision directly affecting a spouse, family, close relation, or friend;
• Use or release of confidential information for personal interests, profit, or benefit;
• Use of Board property, equipment, or resources for personal interests or profit ;
• Acceptance or giving of any gift or service by a Foundations volunteer or staff which could be viewed as payment for services rendered through his/her position unless:
  • It is a gift which is a normal exchange between friends;
  • It is a reasonable exchange of hospitality between persons doing business;
  • It is a token of appreciation.

Action if Conflict of Interest Arises at Staff or Volunteer level

• In situations where a volunteer or staff declares a personal conflict, or where a conflict is perceived by others, the responsible person shall rule whether or not a conflict of interest exists.
• While the responsible person determines whether or not a conflict exists, the volunteer or staff shall remove themselves from the situation which causes the perceived conflict.
• If the responsible person rules that a conflict exists, the volunteer or staff may resign or be reassigned.
• The responsible person will disclose the details of the conflict (who, what, and resolution) and it will be recorded in the minutes of the next Board meeting.
• Staff members and volunteers shall declare involvement in an organization or business that may be viewed as a real or perceived conflict of interest.