Appendix B: Ministry Values

The ministry depends on the strengths, skills and commitment of its employees, operating in a supportive and innovative learning environment. The ministry's values and actions guide staff towards the realization of ministry goals.

These values are reflected in the ministry's Taxpayer Fairness and Service Code. Specifically, the Taxpayer Fairness and Service Code details a taxpayer's right to:

• Courtesy and respect;
• Privacy and confidentiality;
• Fair treatment;
• Obtain help;
• Complete, accurate, clear and timely information;
• Understand the business the ministry conducts with them;
• Dispute resolution; and
• Timely appeal.

In 2005/06, the ministry's commitment to the values of providing high quality service and accountability will be further solidified by working with business organizations to identify and communicate ministry service standards and targets. As with other ministry priorities, the ministry will be reporting on results and using them to fine-tune ministry efforts.

In addition, the ministry's alliance with a private sector service provider is consistent with the ministry's commitment to its values of quality service, innovation, productivity and integrity. The alliance will improve customer service through new ways of doing business and the use of new technologies, including the consolidation of debt portfolios, multiple channels for interacting with government, leading edge technologies, industry best practices, and streamlined billing, payment and collection processes. Service level commitments have been identified within the contract to ensure that the ministry and its customers receive enhanced service, and the contract is structured to ensure performance and service levels are improved and sustained. The contract protects British Columbian's information with privacy, confidentiality and security provisions which meet and exceed the standards of British Columbia's Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.