The PSA welcomes the formation of the Expert Advisory Group to support the overhaul of the welfare system.
"We note the government’s commitment to make sure the system is accessible and fair for all New Zealanders, and the
range of perspectives it is seeking," National Secretary Glenn Barclay says.
"But the voice of MSD employees must be included, particularly front-line Work and Income staff.
"They will have their own perspectives on where the stresses are in the system and how they can be remedied.
"We are proposing mechanisms by which employees can feed their knowledge and concerns to the Welfare Expert Advisory
Group, not just in the form of submissions but throughout the process.
"The PSA has suggested a worker panel to meet with members of the Advisory Group, and will continue to encourage
Minister Sepuloni to incorporate this into the Advisory Group’s work."
ENDS