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Prior to 1908,
people were commonly hired into the public service, based on their
good connections rather than their good qualifications. In 1908,
the Public Service Act changed that by requiring applicants
for the position of Clerk to pass a competitive exam. For the first
time an applicant was judged on this/her own performance (individual
merit) as well as compared against other applicants’ performance on
the same exam (relative merit). Certification of good health and
character was also required. This was the beginning of a
non-partisan public service.
The principle of
merit still applies to hiring and promotions in the BC public
service. Merit means that your appointment will be based on an
assessment of competence and ability to do the job, and the
selection will not be based on patronage.
The Office of the
Merit Commissioner is marking this year in a number of ways. Please
check below for related activities and information.
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