Recusal—stepping away from a discussion, decision, debate or vote—is the best way to address or manage a conflict of interest. It means having nothing to do with the matter.
A recusal is different from an abstention. It is more than simply staying silent during a discussion or not voting, because the mere presence of an individual can influence another participant. You must leave the room (physical or virtual) and refrain from having any further involvement in the matter.
Under the Conflict of Interest Act, you must recuse yourself from all discussions or decision-making on any matter when there is an opportunity to:
- further your private interests
- further the private interests of your relatives or friends
- improperly further the private interests of anyone else
It doesn’t matter if those private interests would actually be furthered.
An information notice issued by the Commissioner provides more information on recusals. Educational sessions offered by the Commissioner’s Office can also help you understand these rules. If you have questions, you are welcome to call 613-995-0721 or send us an email.
Conflict of interest screens help prevent situations where the Conflict of Interest Act would require you to recuse yourself (step away) from a discussion, decision, debate or vote.
Screens are formal plans that the Commissioner’s Office can help you set up ahead of time to avoid seeing or dealing with files that could put you in a conflict of interest.
If a screen is in place and working correctly, files that might pose a conflict are not shown to you, so you do not need to recuse.
An information notice issued by the Commissioner provides more information on conflict of interest screens.