Update on the State Services Commission investigation into public service recruitment & employment of Madeleine Setchell

3 August 2007

The State Services Commissioner, Mark Prebble, is currently undertaking an investigation into the public service recruitment and employment of Madeleine Setchell. Mark Prebble has stated that he will be assisted in this investigation by David Shanks, Chief Legal Advisor.

Because the employment process involved some interactions between the Ministry for the Environment and the State Services Commission, Mark Prebble will also involve an independent inquirer.

“In order to reach an informed judgement about the role of the Public Service in this matter, I need all the facts.

“It is important that this is a methodical process. I must not rush to judgement on this and, for this reason, I will do this carefully and thoroughly. It is my legal obligation to carry out this investigation and I intend to discharge it with independent assistance.

“As is commonly the case in such matters, I intend to seek the advice of the Solicitor General to ensure the investigation is robust. I will also be seeking his advice in identifying what independent assistance will be appropriate.

“I cannot avoid my responsibility to assess the chief executive’s handling of these employment matters myself. Having independent assistance will ensure that all aspects of the investigation are conducted objectively.

“The central issue here is a public service employment one. I am required to form my view independently of any public or political commentary.

“As is usually the case with inquiries, I do not propose to comment further at this time,” Mark Prebble said.

The investigation is expected to take between 6-8 weeks.

ENDS

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