Public inquiries in Canada

Article Abstract:

Public inquiries have been used extensively throughout Canada's modern political history, but they are in decline as a vehicle for policy development and are under attack as a means of investigating problems affecting the integrity of public institutions. This paper traces the evolution of the public inquiry and the different costs and delays are assessed from the perspective of earlier inquiries. Current concerns about costs and delays are assessed from the perspective of earlier inquiries. The establishment and management of public inquiries is examined, together with the problems associated with the adversarial nature of the process that characterizes many investigative inquiries. The paper concludes with proposals for dealing with current problems, so that the public inquiry will continue to be available as a way of providing Canadians with independent advice about national development and the integrity of federal institutions. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)

Governmental investigations, Government investigations, Legislative hearings

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The Public Service of Canada: The Case for Political Neutrality

Article Abstract:

If Canada's present liberal party leadership is replaced by a more progressive orientation, there will be widespread changes in the public service. The concept of a permanent, professional, non-partisan public service is very meaningful. Unfortunately, the notion of political neutrality has been eroded. There must be greater recognition of the anonymity principle, and merit must be reaffirmed as the appointment basis. The accountability of the public service to the executive must be improved. Rather than partisan appointments, the appointment of senior policy advisors is advocated. The advisory role could be augmented with policy research by partisan interests. Parliament's role in improving public service accountability is addressed. The distinction between policy and administration in parliamentary systems is analyzed. A wide dispersal and balancing of power is desirable.

Economic policy

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Managing retrenchment in a public service organization

Article Abstract:

The experience of managing a regional planning commission during Alberta's economic down turn provides insights into managing retrenchment in a public service organization. General principles include: scan the environment, acknowledge reality, foster political support, renew commitment to productivity, review corporate strategy, target reductions, reduce slowly, seek alternatives to staff reductions, balance nationality and fairness, and communicate. Management alternatives to coping with external, environmental change are discussed as being strategic or operational. A strategic alternative should increase the organization's credibility and visibility, thereby garnering political support for the organization.

Methods, Management, Case studies, Public utilities, Planning, Organizational communication, Government executives

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