ANTI-HARASSMENT REVIEW ACCEPTED

Minister Responsible for the Public Service Commission Joanne Crofford has accepted recommendations to strengthen the public service anti-harassment policy and make clear the government's zero tolerance for harassment.

"We take seriously our commitment to ensure a harassment-free workplace, and I am confident that the recommendations from this review will strengthen our policy and process, and make clear the government's zero tolerance for harassment," Crofford said.

Crofford requested the review of specific aspects of the policy in early April. She received the results April 30th, and has accepted the recommendations and directed the Public Service Commission to begin immediate implementation.

The recommendations include:

• Clarifying and strengthening when dismissal will be considered in
harassment cases;

• Providing extra supports for departments dealing with harassment
issues, including a manager's checklist identifying key issues to be
considered at all stages throughout the process, a database identifying
government harassment cases, and an advisory committee for Deputy
Ministers;

• Directing departments to enhance employee awareness of harassment
issues;

• Ensuring that Deputy Ministers consult with complainants to determine
the impact on the complainant and the workplace prior to making
discipline decisions. Deputy Ministers will also share with complainants,
on a confidential basis, what discipline the respondent has received,
and why. Deputy Ministers may also, on a confidential basis, share this
information with others in the immediate workgroup where felt
necessary; and

• Modifying the policy statement to make it clear that there is zero
tolerance for harassment in the public service workplace.

The review also recommended that further time be taken to consider issues related to public disclosure of disciplinary actions, and that further review and analysis be done on the investigative process.

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For More Information, Contact:

Shelley Banks, Communications Public Service Commission Regina Phone: (306)787-6479