Governance

As elected representative of the Batchewana First Nation we will do our utmost to carry out the duties of our position conscientiously, loyally, and honestly; we will also respect our traditional teaching of looking seven generations into the future, remembering that our primary duty is to serve Batchewana First Nation as a whole; and extends beyond our term as elected members of Council.

We hereby agree to abide by the policies of the Batchewana First Nation.

We do solemnly swear to uphold throughout the term of elected office on Batchewana First Nation.

I agree to abide by the laws, policies and regulations of the Batchewana First Nation.

Terms of Office

1. I agree to abide by the laws, policies and regulations of the Batchewana First Nation.
2. I will perform my duties as a member of Council honestly, loyally, and conscientiously, mindful of the fact that my primary responsibility is to serve Batchewana First Nation collectively.
3. In words and actions, I will protect and maintain the integrity and dignity of Batchewana First Nation community, its employees and leadership.
4. In the performance of my duties as a member of Council, I will be courteous, reliable and prompt in addressing specific issues.
5. I will maintain a positive, co-operative attitude in dealing with fellow Councillors, employees, and community members, and will work as a team member toward the betterment of Batchewana First Nation.
6. I will work diligently in co-operation with the Chief, Council and community members to improve the quality of life of Batchewana First Nation.
7. As a member of Council, I will conduct myself at all times in a manner that will bring credit to the Chief and Council of the Batchewana First Nation.
8. I will attend all Band Council meetings punctually, unless there is a valid reason (Council Business, Inclement Weather, or such other reason as may be approved by Council at a duly convened meeting) for lateness or absence, in which case I will contact the CEO or designate as the case may be; and/or the Chief and/or the Council Executive Assistant at least one (1) hour before the meeting.
9. In my role as a member of Council, I will attend and be prepared for all approved meetings, workshops, conferences, etc., acting as an official delegate of the Batchewana First Nation. This responsibility will include the prompt submission of formal written and/or verbal reports to the Chief and Council. These reports shall include the nature of the meetings and the potential impact on the Batchewana First Nation. I will make recommendations to Council regarding future action on related issues.
10. I will not give out official and/or confidential information acquired as a result of my elected position. I shall only release such information that has been authorized by Council or otherwise as compelled by law.
11. I understand that if I breach s. 10 above, I am placing Batchewana First Nation at risk of liability and may be personally liable for such actions. I also understand that this may include punitive actions from Council in accordance with the sanctions provided within this handbook.
12. All information obtained in my capacity as a member of Council will be utilized to profit the Batchewana First Nation collectively, not to serve my personal interests.
13. I will utilize equipment, supplies, etc., owned by the Batchewana First Nation for authorized purposes only during my term as a member of Council. I will observe all relevant procedures regarding the care and maintenance of such property.
14. I will not accept any fees, gifts or tangibles in exchange for favours from BFN members, thereby abusing my position as a member of Council.
15. I will not publicly criticize the positions or policies of the Band Council in the media. If I feel that changes would be advisable, I will provide constructive suggestions at duly convened Council meetings.
16. When personal interests on an issue jeopardize my ability to discuss and make recommendations on the issue objectively and professionally, I agree to remove myself from the meeting, either on my own initiative or at the request of the Chief and Council.
17. As a member of Council, all requests or suggestions of staff must be made at Council meetings through the established chain of command (BFN Org Chart Appendix A); and no direction is to be given to BFN staff by me.