Maharey Should Resign, Not Pivac

Monday 3 Nov 2003 Dr Muriel Newman Press Releases -- Social Welfare

While the sudden resignation of CYFS chief executive Jackie Pivac is good news, it is her political masters who should resign - especially Social Services Minister Stave Maharey, ACT New Zealand Social Welfare Spokesman Dr Muriel Newman said today.

"Ms Pivac's resignation today is welcome news - it shows that she was having difficulty coping with the culture of failure in a Labour Government agency," Dr Newman said.

"But any criticism of CYFS should not detract from this long-serving public servant's career. The responsibility for the department's failure lies firmly at the feet of a Labour Government that refuses to ensure the safety of New Zealand children.

"Both Jackie Pivac and CYFS have been failed by this Minister, and both need a fresh start. Whoever replaces Ms Pivac will need the skills to manage an organisation that is in a desperate plight," Dr Newman said.

ENDS

For more information visit ACT online at http://www.act.org.nz or contact the ACT Parliamentary Office at act@parliament.govt.nz.

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