Chief Executive Appointed To Ministry Of Social Development

Chief Executive designate of the Ministry of Social Development, Peter Hughes, says it's time to rule a line, put the past behind us, and move on. The Ministry, to be formed from the Department of Work and Income and the Ministry of Social Policy, comes into operation on 1 October. State Services Commissioner, Michael Wintringham, announced Mr Hughes' appointment this morning.

"The Department of Work and Income has been through a very difficult period recently. Throughout I have been thoroughly impressed by the commitment and professionalism of the staff who just simply got on with the job."

"Having started my career as a front line worker in the Benefits Division of the Department of Social Welfare, I know how hard that must have been. But with the 1 October establishment of the Ministry it's time to rule a line and move on."

"I'm very much looking forward to working with the staff of the Department of Work and Income and the Ministry of Social Policy. I know a lot of the staff already. Having worked in both areas when they were part of the Department of Social Welfare, it feels a bit like I'm coming home. I have a huge respect for the staff and achievements of both agencies."

"There's a huge job to be done to build the Ministry of Social Development. I'm looking forward to getting on with it."

"I will be sad to leave Internal Affairs. In the relatively short time that I've been there I've been thoroughly impressed by the commitment, dedication and professionalism of the many staff who work in the various areas that make up Internal Affairs. I wish them well for the future and want to personally acknowledge their support for me over the last eight months."

"This is a once in a career life time opportunity to make a difference and I'm hugely appreciative of the confidence the Commissioner, the Minister and the Government have shown in me in making this appointment," Mr Hughes said.

Ends

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