Statement on the resignation of chief executive of the Ministry for the Environment

The State Services Commissioner, Mark Prebble, today announced that he has accepted the resignation of Hugh Logan as Chief Executive of the Ministry for the Environment.

"Hugh Logan has decided, in all the current circumstances, it would be best for the Ministry and the Public Service if he were to leave his present position. This has been a very difficult decision. I respect him for it.

"This move brings to the close a very impressive public service career. Hugh Logan has contributed strongly over 26 years in a number of government departments. Some of his early leadership roles were in the Antarctic programme where his efforts are well remembered. He then had 9 years as Director General of Conservation, leading the Department of Conservation. Under his leadership the Department performed very strongly both in its fundamental conservation purpose and in significantly improving its administrative systems and practices.

"Over the last 18 months he has been Secretary for the Environment. This has been a very busy time with the Ministry making an ever increasing contribution on a wide range of issues in sustainable development, particularly climate change. Hugh has been widely acknowledged as a leader in this field. Unfortunately, this contribution has been overshadowed in recent months by the ongoing controversy around employment matters within the Ministry for the Environment. Hugh Logan has acknowledged that he has made mistakes, and as chief executive, he has also taken responsibility for mistakes in the Ministry.

"Hugh's departure will be a major loss to Public Service chief executives. We all respect his abilities and his contribution.

"Hugh Logan and I have agreed that his last day of work will be February 1, 2008.

"Mr Logan's contract includes a 3 month notice period. In the circumstances, I have agreed that an early departure will be the best way of moving on from the current position. Accordingly, he will continue to receive 3 months pay in lieu of notice.

"In order to ensure that Mr Logan can make an effective transition to future work, we have discussed an option of his carrying out research work for the State Services Commission. I have told him that if he takes that option he will be working for one quarter of his current salary.

"I wish him well and recognise the leadership that he has shown in this action.

"I will announce an acting Chief Executive in the New Year, and expect to start the search for a successor early in 2008," Mark Prebble said.

ENDS

© Scoop Media