A CBSA supervisor instructs an officer to ignore a minor administrative infraction by a frequent importer 'just this once' to maintain a good working relationship. What is the MOST appropriate action for the officer, upholding ethical standards?

Question: A CBSA supervisor instructs an officer to ignore a minor administrative infraction by a frequent importer 'just this once' to maintain a good working relationship. What is the MOST appropriate action for the officer, upholding ethical standards?

Answer options:

• Follow the supervisor's instruction, but document the instruction for their own records. ✅ Politely explain to the supervisor the importance of consistent application of rules and escalate the issue through the chain of command if necessary.
• Quietly document the infraction and the supervisor's instruction, but proceed as instructed.
• Implement the supervisor's instruction, but advise the importer that this is a one-time favour.

Correct answer: Politely explain to the supervisor the importance of consistent application of rules and escalate the issue through the chain of command if necessary.

Explanation: Upholding the CBSA's ethical standards requires consistent application of rules. An officer must respectfully challenge instructions that compromise integrity and, if unresolved, escalate the concern through appropriate channels to ensure accountability and fairness.