To all Chairpersons and Members of Employment Insurance Boards of Referees

Subject: Conduct during elections

We would like to take the opportunity to remind you that appointments to a quasi-judicial tribunal, such as the EI Board of Referees, entails limitations on political activities on the part of appointees.

The overriding principle is that a public office holder should not participate in a political activity where it may reasonably be seen to be incompatible with the public office holder's duty, or reasonably seen to impair his or her ability to discharge his or her duties in a politically impartial fashion, or would cast doubt on the integrity or impartiality of the office.

In general, members of a quasi-judicial body, such as EI Boards of Referees, should not participate in political activities and must notify immediately the appointing EI Commissioner (members) or the Director of EI Appeals (Chairs) if you are currently pursuing or intending to pursue any political activities.

You will be required to take a leave of absence from the Board of Referees for the duration of your involvement in these activities and if elected, you may be required to resign your position on the Board of Referees depending on the level of office.

Should you have specific questions concerning any political activity you may be contemplating or in which you are currently engaged, please don’t hesitate to contact us.