There is no excuse for the continuing gender pay gap in the public service, says Brenda Pilott, Public Service Association National Secretary.

The New Zealand Census of Women’s Participation released today by the Human Rights Commission shows that the gender pay gap across the public service is 15.4%. Many government departments had gaps of more than 20%, and one reported a gap of 38.81%.

“Last year the Government abandoned the plan of action on pay equity and abolished the pay and employment equity unit in the Department of Labour. This has clearly sent a signal to many departments that pay equity is a very low priority for this government,” says Brenda Pilott.

“Some departments such as Corrections [2.30%] and Conservation [6.0%] are setting an example with policies that are obviously working to reduce the gender gap while others are frankly appalling examples of inequity.”

“No amount of rationalisation can justify disparities between the pay of between men and women of 30.65% [Education] or 29% [Treasury] or 27.50% [Prime Minister and Cabinet],” says Brenda Pilott. “Even the State Services Commission, which should be providing leadership in the sector, has a 26% gender gap.”

“This report shows women in the public service are losing ground in the battle for equal pay for equal work. It’s a cause for shame that such inequities are not only tolerated but allowed to grow.”

“The Government must send strong signals to its public service chief executives, of whom only four are women, that they expect the gender gap to close. Otherwise it will be further proof that they do not value the work of women in the public service.”

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