CODE OF PROFESSIONALISM
Ontario's Conservation Officers will: conduct themselves in a fashion which promotes respect for the law; instil public confidence in their fairness and impartiality; convey a professional image; reflect the high standards, character and demeanour expected of those entrusted with the compliance function; and ensure that the duties being performed are timely, consistent, impartial and courteous.
Elements of Professionalism
- Honesty - Conducting duties in such a manner as to inspire confidence and respect for the position of public trust held by conservation officers.
- Confidentiality - Treating in confidence whatever a conservation officer sees, hears or learns of which is confidential in nature unless performance of duties or legal provisions require otherwise.
- Respect - Treating business and the public with respect by being courteous at all times and in all situations.
- Objectivity - Performing all duties impartially and objectively, without favour or ill will, based on relevant legislation, regulations, standards, policies, procedures and on amassed evidence.
- Timeliness - Conducting and concluding activities in a timely fashion.
- Knowledge and Competencies - Enhancing and improving the level of knowledge and competence of conservation officers.
- Compliance and Risk - Consider the public interest and the management of risk when planning and undertaking compliance activities.
Service Standards for Professionalism
On initial contact with a client a conservation officer will:
- Introduce themselves and the Ministry they represent
- Identify the statutory authority for the inspection, investigation or audit
- Provide general information regarding the inspection, audit or enforcement process
- Provide a contact number should further information or feedback be required
