Relationship with B.C. Government

Public sector organizations operate under varying levels of government oversight, depending on how they’re defined, funded and the types of services they provide.

Government’s strategic priorities and fiscal plan affect the services delivered through ministry programs and by public sector organizations. These organizations are accountable to government with specific roles and responsibilities that must support public policy objectives and the fiscal plan. The government provides them with direction through  oversight in policy and procedure development.

Close relationship

A public sector organization has a close relationship with and oversight from the government if it has some or all the following characteristics:

• Established by a statute, regulation or legislative authority
• Over half the board members are appointed by the government
• Over half its funding is provided by the government
• Delivers a program or service that directly connects to a specific government policy objective or ministry program such as legal aide or affordable housing
• Provides public input or specialized knowledge to the government
• Responsible for adjudicating or regulating government or private sector practices, like a tribunal

Minimal relationship

A public sector organization generally has minimal government oversight when:

• The government doesn’t have a controlling interest in its service delivery or the organization’s management
• The service can be adequately managed by the private sector
• The service doesn’t promote any public policy objectives