1 February, 2012

Government cuts deep into its principal advisor on Maori issues

The National-led Government’s squeeze on the public sector is set to cut deep into the crown’s principal advisor on Maori issues says the PSA.

Staff at Te Puni Kokiri were shocked when they were told that around 50 jobs could go from the public service agency.

“Like other government departments TPK has already suffered significant cuts, but this is a relatively small agency that does a big job,” says PSA National Secretary Brenda Pilott.

“Over 60 positions have gone in the past three years and $8 million cut from its budget. We understand the department has made $3 million in savings in a range of areas like hiring fewer consultants.

“The Chief Executive said in his briefing to staff today that there was a shortfall of $5 million and that the agency was looking to find that by cutting jobs.

“There is concern that some regional offices may be cut. We are yet to see a detailed proposal on where the cuts will be made, but there is absolutely no doubt in our members’ minds that the loss of 50 jobs is going to impact heavily on the agency’s advocacy, social and development work it does on behalf of Maori people.

“TPK provides a Maori perspective on all policies that Government is considering and its regional networks are important in keeping that advice grounded. Just this week we have seen TPK move quickly into action over issues to do with Treaty principles and asset sales.

“The Government keeps asking public service departments to do more with less. It simply can’t be done anymore.

“The PSA was invited to the staff briefing today and we expect to be closely involved in the change process with the Department over the next few months,” says Brenda Pilott.

ends

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