All EMHA Executive Committee members, in their corporate capacity, have a responsibility to effectively discharge the duties of their position with honesty, integrity and in the interests of public morals and civility. In doing so, members are expected to comply with, support and promote the guiding principles set out in this Code.
The guiding principles are consistent with EMHA's mission, values, and by-law. It is expected that all EMHA Executive Committee members, support and promote the following principles by leadership and example:
Accountability
Executive members are accountable for their decisions and actions to the EMHA membership. This is demonstrated by:
- Recognizing and respecting confidential information learned in the course of EMHA activities.
- Participating in constructive debate by attending meetings; being prepared; and being clear, concise and respectful of the time of others.
- Remaining flexible and open to change.
- Supporting the final decisions made by the Executive and it's sub-committees.
- Contributing to positive committee member functioning by supporting one another.
Respect
Executive members respect diversity of opinion, ideas and debate.
This is demonstrated by:
- Recognizing the equal right of all public and EMHA members to be heard and respected.
- Recognizing, promoting, valuing and encouraging awareness of the diverse expertise, experience and knowledge that exists among Executive members and the benefit of such to constructive debate, the democratic process and effective decision-making.
- Promoting collaborative behaviour characterized by mutual respect and efficient use of time.
- Avoiding personal or group criticism of fellow members both at and away from committee meetings.
Integrity
Committee members do not place themselves under any obligation to outside individuals or organizations that might influence them in the performance of their official duties with EMHA. This is demonstrated by:
- Making decisions in the Association's interest.
- Maintaining boundaries and avoiding personal and competing professional interests.
Openness
Committee members are as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take. This is demonstrated by:
- Identifying, disclosing and acting appropriately on conflicts of interest.
- Being transparent in providing all reasons and supporting rationale for decisions made by the Executive.
Committee members will hold themselves and each other accountable for meeting the behaviours of this Code of Ethical Conduct.
Process for Holding Committee Members Accountable to the Code
It is the responsibility of each and every committee member to hold herself/himself accountable for behaving in accordance with this Code of Ethical Conduct. In addition, members have a responsibility to hold each other accountable for behaving in accordance with the Code.
If a committee member has concerns that the behaviour of another committee member did not reflect the Code of Ethical Conduct, the member is expected to:
- Discuss her or his concern with the committee member whose conduct was· perceived to be inappropriate;
- If the member does not recognize the problem and take appropriate action or the behaviour continues, discuss the concern with the President.
If the inappropriate behaviour is confirmed and continues after a meeting with the President, the issue shall be brought before the full Executive Committee. Following proper presentation and discussion the issue, the Executive shall vote, in accordance with existing voting rules, on dismissal from the Executive Committee of the member whose behaviour is being addressed.