PSA Media Release

9th May 2012
Border Biosecurity can’t be left to chance

The PSA says border biosecurity systems are already dangerously stretched and any further cuts to staffing would seriously undermine New Zealand’s vital frontline defences.

A Cabinet paper, obtained under the Official Information Act, outlines a range of proposals to further ‘streamline’ the border security system although there are still few details on exactly what is planned.

The PSA is concerned that the proposals could lead to further cuts to crucial frontline positions at airport, seaport and offices around New Zealand.

“We already have a border security service which has undergone a lot of change due to the merger of MAF and MFish into the Ministry for Primary Industries, along with months of internal restructuring,” says PSA National Secretary Richard Wagstaff.

“Morale and staff numbers are already well down due to what appears to be a shrinking lid policy on frontline positions. For example there is no longer a dog inspection unit at Wellington Airport, and there are staff shortages in Christchurch and at the Auckland port because vacancies are not being filled after staff leave”.

“There have been reported difficulties with filling rosters and meeting sick leave requirements at airports and seaports around the country while remaining staff are stretched trying to do more with less. The result is that many staff are leaving due to the uncertain environment and stress,” he says.

Many of New Zealand’s primary industries and underlying economy rely heavily on robust border security to stop diseases and pests from getting in and establishing.

“It would be irresponsible for the government to continue to rundown our border security and put our exports or primary production at risk,” says Mr Wagstaff.

The PSA understands the streamlining proposals are still at an early stage but it’s important that streamlining does not equate to staff or service cuts that will impact on New Zealand as a primary production economy and world market leader.

“The public needs to be reassured that New Zealand’s biosecurity will not be seriously weakened, and biosecurity management at the border simply left to chance”.

“Further cuts would also make a mockery of the government’s claims that frontline jobs would not fall victim to its slash and burn approach to the public service,” Mr Wagstaff says.

ends

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