Issue Statement

The Government of Alberta plays a central role in shaping the province’s economic trajectory through policy, investment, and service delivery. However, Alberta’s Code of Conduct and Ethics for Public Service  do not explicitly recognize economic stewardship—including fiscal responsibility, value-for-money principles, and long-term economic impact—as a core ethical obligation.

In a time of economic transition, budgetary pressures, and increasing public scrutiny, embedding economic stewardship into the provincial public service values is essential to ensure responsible governance and sustainable economic outcomes.

Background

The federal Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector includes “stewardship” as a guiding principle, but does not explicitly define economic stewardship. Alberta’s public service code of conduct and ethics emphasize integrity, responsibility and accountability, and the values are defined as respect, accountability, integrity and excellence, yet both lack a clear mandate for economic foresight and fiscal prudence.

By formally recognizing economic stewardship as a public service value and part of its code of conduct, Alberta can:

•    Strengthen fiscal accountability and long-term planning.

•    Improve public trust in government decision-making.

•    Align provincial programs with economic development goals.

•    Encourage innovation and efficiency in service delivery.

Recommendations

That the Government of Alberta:

1.    Amend the Code of Conduct and Ethics for Public Service or introduce a new mandate for “Economic Stewardship” that emphasizes fiscal responsibility, cost-effectiveness, and long-term economic impact.

2.    Mandate Value-for-Money Reviews Across Ministries and require departments to assess the economic efficiency and impact of programs, services, and capital investments.

3.    Integrate Economic Impact Assessments into Policy Development and ensure all major policy proposals and budget decisions include an evaluation of their economic implications.

4.    Develop training programs for public servants and elected officials that include modules on economic stewardship and responsible financial management.

5.    Require regular public reporting on budget performance, economic outcomes, and value-for-money evaluations.

Date Drafted: October 16, 2025

Date Approved: November 19, 2025