Declaration of Interests
Stage One: Connection
For each particular matter I am involved in as a Board member, I will first consider whether I have a connection to that matter.
I understand that a connection is any link between the matter being considered and me, or a person or body I am associated with. This could be a family relationship or a social or professional contact.
A connection includes anything that I have registered as an interest.
A connection does not include being a member of a body to which I have been appointed or nominated by my public body as a representative of my public body, unless:
- The matter being considered by my public body is quasi-judicial or regulatory; or
- I have a personal conflict by reason of my actions, my connections or my legal obligations.
Stage Two: Interest
I understand my connection is an interest that requires to be declared where the objective test is met – that is where a member of the public with knowledge of the relevant facts would reasonably regard my connection to a particular matter as being so significant that it would be considered as being likely to influence the discussion or decision-making.
Stage Three: Participation
I will declare my interest as early as possible in meetings. I will not remain in the meeting nor participate in any way in those parts of meetings where I have declared an interest.
I will consider whether it is appropriate for transparency reasons to state publicly where I have a connection, which I do not consider amounts to an interest.
I note that public confidence in a public body is damaged by the perception that decisions taken by that body are substantially influenced by factors other than the public interest. I will not accept a role or appointment if doing so means I will have to declare interests frequently at meetings in respect of my role as a Board member. Similarly, if any appointment or nomination to another body would give rise to objective concern because of my existing personal involvement or affiliations, I will not accept the appointment or nomination.