|
|
As news stories evolve over time, it can become difficult to keep focus on the big picture. Reflection in hindsight can reveal interesting - sometimes startling - patterns in an otherwise rapid, chaotic event. PRIVA-CTM Research follows such news stories, the commentary on which may prevent others from repeating past mistakes in privacy management.
|
|
|
NOTE: Some external news stories may expire over time, resulting in dead links.
|
|
 |
June 9, 2003 Toronto Star
Privacy chief faces queries over spending
Privacy Commissioner George Radwanski spent nearly $100,000 on travel in the last fiscal year, almost six times what the federal information commissioner spent. [More…]
June 11, 2003 Toronto Star
Watchdog's fate up in the air
Radwanski was brought before the committee on Monday to justify his expenses, and to explain why a letter he submitted to the committee was missing a paragraph. [More…]
June 12, 2003 Globe and Mail
Privacy officials face questioning by committee
Officials of the federal Privacy Commissioner George Radwanski's office will be called to a Commons committee today over allegations that Mr. Radwanski submitted a falsified document and may have given an incomplete tally of his expenses. [More…]
June 13, 2003 CBC
Radwanski fights for job at closed hearing
George Radwanski's lawyer says he and his client have nothing to hide from a Commons committee asking questions Friday about the federal privacy commissioner's travel expenses. [More…]
June 14, 2003 CTV
Radwanski angrily denies he covered up expenses
"I still don't know the specific allegations that were made. I still don't know what supposed evidence the committee is relying on." [More…]
June 16, 2003 Globe and Mail
Another precedent for Radwanski
The most effective federal privacy commissioner since the position was created is about to be dethroned, victim of his own hubris and a penchant for expense-account lunches in Ottawa's best restaurants… [More…]
June 17, 2003 Globe and Mail
Radwanski left trail of expensive receipts
Privacy commissioner George Radwanski always requested the table with the best view at the restaurants where he dined. [More…]
June 18, 2003 Globe and Mail
Committee calls for Radwanski's resignation
Manitoba Liberal MP Reg Alcock … said Mr. Radwanski can no longer do his job as a parliamentary officer, suggesting he resign before the confrontation grows. [More…]
June 19, 2003 CBC
Auditor asked to probe Radwanski expenses
MPs investigating expense claims made by the privacy commissioner have asked Canada's auditor general to complete a full audit. [More…]
June 20, 2003 Toronto Star
Privacy staff urge boss to quit
Canada's beleaguered privacy watchdog is coming under new attacks from inside his own office, with a majority of staff signing a letter demanding that George Radwanski step down. [More…]
June 23, 2003 Toronto Star
Privacy commissioner resigns amid scandal, protest
Embittered and unrepentant, Privacy Commissioner George Radwanski resigned today, blaming his inglorious exit on MPs he said were anger at his aggressive approach to the job. [More…]
|
We're told that when you live in a glass house, don't throw stones. But what if throwing stones is part of your job? Privacy officials occupy positions of public trust. They are often called upon to check, and even criticize, the actions of their colleagues and superiors. As such they must maintain impeccable integrity. What can we learn from the misfortunes of the former federal privacy commissioner?
 As an enforcer of rules, privacy officials must respect the rules to which they are subject, whether it is expense claim policy, completion of time sheets, or codes of conduct. Scrupulously follow any organization policies that may apply. Don't ever cheat.
Several media commentators noted that when the media feeding frenzy began, nobody stood up for the federal commissioner. He had successfully alienated anyone who might be an ally in times of crisis, including the provincial privacy commissioners. Privacy officials must nurture and develop strong personal and organizational relationships and alliances.
Give credit where credit is due. The former federal commissioner was reported as having taking all credit for the victories of his office and not acknowledging the participation and support of others, including provincial privacy commissioners who often waded in supporting his sometimes controversial positions.
If you have staff, consciously pay attention to their needs. Build a team environment where everyone is working to a common cause. Be generous in giving credit and praise when it is deserved.
Be open and transparent in all your dealings, from the execution of your responsibilities to the administration of your office.
Be humble. You're not perfect. You'll make mistakes. Quickly own up and correct them.
|
|
|
|
