10 July 2014

DOC restructuring a failure

The State Services Commission has found that the Government’s restructuring of the Department of Conservation (DOC) is not working, the Green Party said today.

The report identifies that managerial roles which were eliminated by the National Government are returning in an ad-hoc way out of necessity. Staff are concerned about ongoing workplace stress and a concerning increase in injury rates. The report identifies two areas which are weak, 11 areas that need development, no areas where the department is strong and only three in which it is well placed.

“This report shows that National’s restructuring and budget cuts have had a massive negative impact on the Department of Conservation,” Green Party conservation spokesperson Eugenie Sage said today.

“This Government doesn’t care enough about conservation to ensure DOC is properly funded. Our treasured native species and wild places, and the people who look after them are paying the price.

“Ironically, engagement with Ministers is one of the few areas where the Department is performing well.

“New Zealanders treasure our national parks and reserves, and we want them protected not neglected,” said Ms Sage.

ENDS

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