Operating Principles

Values

The Ulster-Scots Agency will at all times:

• Observe the highest standards of propriety involving impartiality, integrity and objectivity in relation to the management of public funds and all aspects of its operation;
  
  
• Maximize value for money through ensuring that services are delivered in the most effective, efficient and economical way, within available resources;
  
   
• Be accountable to the Northern Ireland Assembly, Dáil Eireann and the North-South Ministerial Council, users of services, individual citizens and staff for the activities of the Agency, the stewardship of public funds, and the extent to which key performance targets and objectives are met; 
  
  
• In accordance with legislation and the Governments policies on openness, comply fully with current best practice on freedom of information (and in due course with the code of practice to be approved by NSMC) and with the principles of Service First;
  
  
• Promote equality of opportunity in dealing with staff, members of the public and comply in all respects with equality and human rights legislation.
  

Human Resources

The Ulster-Scots Agency is fully committed to the principles of business excellence. It will achieve this by realising fully the skills and experience of its entire staff.

Consequently the Agency will:

• Nominate a Board Member with specific responsibility for health and safety at Board level to create an inclusive, safe and healthy working environment for all staff;
  
  
• Actively promote fairness and equality;
  
  
• Continue its commitment to Investors in People;
  
  
• Encourage team working within an open and participative management culture;
  
  
• Maintain good industrial relations and liaise regularly with Trade Union representatives.

Targeting Social Need

The Agency understands that its policies and delivery must, where possible, be especially inclusive of those in our society in greatest social need.

The Agency will, within its overall strategic approach, and its operation, work to promote social inclusion and to support disadvantaged communities.