STAFF MANAGEMENT 2: Managing conflicts of interest

Question 1

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

Definitions: The CoC defines a conflict of interest as?

Answer 1

A situation where our

personal or professional interests may conflict with our

position, obligations or responsibilities as a Police employee.

Question 2

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

What are the 4 types of ‘Conflicts of Interest?’

Answer 2

1. Actual - conflict btw our official duties and other interests.
2. Perceived - perception of outside observers that other interests may affect our ability to be impartial, objective and independent.
3. Potential - situations where other interest have the potential to interfere with our official duties.
4. Other interests - Interest unrelated to Police i.e. personal, financial, family, or outside committee.

Question 3

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

C.O.I are especially significant in the public sector where we direct and use taxpayer dollars. How must we be seen to act?

Answer 3

Impartially, w/o any possibility of influence by favouritism, personal motives or private benefit.

Question 4

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

C.O.I are especially significant in the public sector where we direct and use taxpayer dollars. C.O.I are also significant to Police because of why?

Answer 4

We have access to private and confidential information.

Question 5

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

Identifying conflicts of interest: Generally, our own c.o.i’s are the most difficult to identify, particularly if they’re ‘perceived’ or ‘potential’. In considering if you have a c.o.i, what questions should you ask yourself? (3)

Answer 5

1. Would you act differently if you didn’t have other interests?
2. How a reasonable 3rd party would be likely to perceive our actions?
3. What would be the consequences to your reputation if colleagues, friends or the public became aware of your actions.

Question 6

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

What other interests could create a conflict of interest: Certain roles we perform are at a higher risk of a c.o.i than others, what are these roles? (10)

Answer 6

1. Internal investigations.
2. Working in isolated/small communities.
3. Procurement.
4. Acting as a police representative in a governance role for a 3rd party organisation.
5. Exercising discretionary powers.
6. Licensing or vetting.
7. Managing staff.
8. Using info from NIA or other police systems.
9. Reviewing decisions in which you played a role.
10. Maintaining relationships with the media.

Question 7

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

It is essential that investigations are independent. For this reason, all investigators assigned to internal investigations (IPCA category 1 and 2) must complete what?

Answer 7

An independence of Investigation Conflict of Interest Declaration form whether or not a conflict of interest exists.

Question 8

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

It is essential that internal investigations are independent. For IPCA categories 4 and 5, when does an independence of Investigation Conflict of Interest Declaration form need to be signed?

Answer 8

Actual, Perceived OR Potential C.O.I exists

NB: External investigations the same form should be completed if the above exists.

Question 9

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

Where do you find a Conflict of Interest declaration form?

Answer 9

In Police forms in Word under: Police Professional Conduct/ Independence of Investigation C.O.I form.

Question 10

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

What to do if you have an actual, perceived or potential C.O.I. If you identify that an actual, perceived or potential conflict of interest exists, then you should notify your supervisor ASAP and complete the appropriate form. List the forms and what they are used for? (3)

Answer 10

1. Independence of investigation C.O.I declaration form - used for investigations, both internal (compulsory) and external (if an actual, perceived or potential conflict exists).
2. Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Agreement - Panel Chair or Panel (to be used by those involved in procurement decisions)
3. Generic Conflict of Interest​ Declaration Form - used in any other situation where a conflict arises.

Question 11

Managing Conflicts of Interest.

What are the responsibilities of a supervisor in regards to conflicts of interest? (2)

Answer 11

1. Foster an environment where staff discuss conflicts of interest and associated risks.
2. Determine whether the conflict could prevent the employee from making an unbiased decision.