PRAIRIE SPIRIT SCHOOL DIVISION

BOARD GOVERNANCE POLICY MANUAL 

Policy#7 - Trustee Conflict of Interest

Policy #7 Trustee Conflict of Interest

Trustees are responsible to familiarize themselves with provisions for Conflict of Interest, Sections 36 -39 under The Public Schools Act ( PSA) which define and outline requirements where Trustees have a pecuniary interest in a division matter, applicable regulations and any guidelines approved by the Board and are responsible to fulfill any obligation therein.

The PSA defines a direct pecuniary interest to include a “fee, commission or other compensation paid or payable to any person for representing the interests of another person, corporation, partnership or organization in a matter”. The PSA further defines an indirect pecuniary interest and indirect pecuniary liability.  Trustees should refer to the PSA for a thorough understanding of pecuniary interest.

The PSA provides specific requirements for situations in which a pecuniary interest exists, including but not limited to:

• Disclosure; 

• Records of compliance; and 

• Rights to attend meetings and to vote.

In addition to the confidentiality requirements in Policy #6 Trustee Code of Conduct, Section 39.4(1) of the PSA prohibits the use of insider information for personal gain or the gain of any other person.

The PSA is specific regarding actions required should a Trustee violate the Conflict of Interest sections of the Act.