You made a reprisal complaint. What comes next? - video with transcription

Hello,

All allegations of reprisal received by our Office undergo a case admissibility review. The information provided is carefully analyzed. An investigation is initiated when there are sufficient grounds to believe that reprisal may have occurred, and when the complainant is eligible for the protection provisions under the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act.

Whether the allegations lead to an investigation or not, the individual who reported the alleged reprisal will be notified in writing of the reasons for the decision within 15 days.

When an investigation is launched, our Office informs the head of the organization involved, as well as the individuals against whom allegations have been made. They all are given the necessary information to understand the allegations and are given a fair opportunity to respond.

During the investigation, our team may examine documents, videos, and other forms of evidence. Interviews may also be conducted with witnesses and alleged reprisal takers.

The investigator may recommend conciliation between the parties. Participation in conciliation is entirely voluntary. If both parties agree to participate, they will play a direct role in settling the matter, with the support of a conciliator. The Commissioner appoints the conciliator after consulting with the complainant and the employer, and our Office pays for the conciliator’s fees.

If the issue is not settled through conciliation, the Commissioner will refer the case to the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Tribunal for a hearing and a final decision. The Tribunal has the power to order appropriate remedies and can also impose disciplinary sanctions on those who have taken reprisal, if requested by the Commissioner.

Thanks for your interest in the Office of the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner of Canada.