Ethics boss clears Shelly Glover on conflict complaint, suggests tighter rules

OTTAWA – The federal ethics commissioner says Heritage Minister Shelly Glover didn’t breach the conflict of interest law in connection with a fundraiser early this year.

But Mary Dawson says that while Glover didn’t personally ask for funds or ask anyone to do so on her behalf, it was inappropriate that Heritage Department stakeholders were invited to make donations to attend the event.

Dawson says the law should be changed to make it clear that a minister or parliamentary secretary who knows — or ought to know — that money was being solicited in such circumstances would be wrong to let it go ahead.

Charlie Angus, the NDP ethics critic, said Glover was saved by a technicality.

“Ms. Dawson is very, very, very, very shy of ever finding fault,” Angus said, adding that it’s clear what went on was inappropriate.

“It doesn’t pass the smell test.”

The watchdog says ministers and parliamentary secretaries should make sure that their staff and electoral district officials are fully briefed on the conflict of interest rules.

The act bars public office holders from personally soliciting funds from any person or organization if it would place them in a conflict of interest.

The Prime Minister’s Office has issued guidance that requires official duties be kept separate from political fundraising, and that ministers and parliamentary secretaries ensure adequate processes are in place to ensure compliance.

Angus says he doesn’t know if the government will follow Dawson’s suggestion and tighten up the act.

“This government loves loopholes on ethics and lobbying.”