Broader Public Sector Principles and Code of Ethics

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The Broader Public Sector (BPS) Procurement Directive (Directive)

 

The eHealth Centre of Excellence is identified as a BPS organization, and therefore required to comply with the Directive. The Directive provides a framework of principles, code of ethics, and set of mandatory requirements for BPS organizations to ensure consistent procurement practices that are ethical, professional and accountable.

 

The Directive’s purpose is to:

• Ensure that publicly funded goods and services are acquired by BPS organizations through a process that is open, fair, and transparent;
• Ensure accountability through each stage of the procurement process; and
• Maximize the value that BPS organizations receive from the use of public funds.

 

BPS Principles   Accountability & Transparency - Being accountable for the results of the procurement decisions and the appropriateness of the processes.  Being transparent to all stakeholders. Wherever possible, stakeholders must have equal access to information on procurement opportunities, processes and results.   Value for Money - Incurring the lowest cost in the fulfilment of specified needs with appropriate levels of quality, security and service.   Quality of Service & Process Standardization - Publicly funded services meet the needs of clients, at the right time, in the right place.  Standardized processes remove inefficiencies and create a level playing field.

 

 

 

BPS Supply Chain Code of Ethics (Code of Ethics)

 

The Code of Ethics:

• Is a set of common values guiding business conduct at the eCE that:
  • promotes a professional and ethical approach;
  • reflects the goals and values of the organization; and
  • aligns with existing codes of ethics and conduct, with supply chain specific standards of practice.
  • applies to everyone at the eCE who is involved in supply chain activities, whether internal or external. 
• The Code of Ethics must be:
  • supported by executive leadership;
  • formally approved by the organization’s executive leadership; and
  • communicated widely to all relevant stakeholders.

 

The Code of Ethics’ principles include:

 

I.  Personal Integrity and Professionalism

• All individuals involved in purchasing or other supply chain-related activities must act, and be seen to act, with integrity and professionalism.  Honesty, care and due diligence must be integral to all supply chain activities within and between BPS organizations, suppliers and other stakeholders.
• Respect must be demonstrated for each other and for the environment. Confidential information must be safeguarded.
• Participants must not engage in any activity that may create, or appear to create a conflict of interest, such as accepting gifts or favours, providing preferential treatment, or publicly endorsing suppliers or products.

 

II.  Accountability & Transparency

• Supply chain activities must be open and accountable.
• In particular, tendering, contracting and purchasing activities must be fair, transparent and conducted with a view to obtaining the best value for public money.
• All participants must ensure public sector resources are used in a responsible, efficient and effective manner.

 

III.  Compliance & Continuous Improvement

• All BPS supply chain participants must comply with the Code of Ethics and the laws of Canada and Ontario.
• Participants should continuously work to improve supply chain policies and procedures, to improve supply chain knowledge and skill levels, and to share leading practices.