The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has introduced a new Personal Conduct and Marital Integrity Policy designed to enhance the professional standards and integrity of its staff. This policy emphasizes the importance of high ethical standards and behavior that maintains the organization’s reputation.
The initiative will set forth explicit guidelines governing conduct in marital and committed relationships, particularly focusing on preventing extramarital affairs that could harm the FCS’s public image. Furthermore, it will establish expectations for professional behavior both inside and outside the workplace, recognizing that FCS personnel are expected to maintain a high level of public trust.
FCS Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa remarked that the initiative underscores the service’s dedication to professionalism, integrity, and public confidence. He stated, “Integrity in personal relationships is not merely a private matter for FCS staff; it directly affects public perception of the service.” He added that the policy clearly articulates the expectation for officers to exhibit ethical behavior in both their personal and professional lives.
The policy is currently under review and will undergo consultations prior to its official adoption. Upon implementation, violations could lead to disciplinary measures ranging from counseling and reprimands to suspension or dismissal, depending on the seriousness of the infraction.
Additionally, the policy will include support systems, such as counseling services, for employees dealing with personal issues. This aspect underscores FCS’s commitment to staff welfare while promoting the highest standards of conduct.
The Personal Conduct and Marital Integrity Policy will be applicable to all FCS employees, focusing on essential areas such as relationship integrity, workplace professionalism, and the importance of a positive public image.