Statistics NZ Stands By Its Employment Practices

2006 Census Employment Practices: March 2006

9 March 2006

Statistics New Zealand Stands By Its Employment Practices

Government Statistician Brian Pink confirmed that a census collector in the Waikato area resigned yesterday after it emerged that he had failed to disclose information material to his employment.

Mr Pink said today that it was a most unfortunate incident that the department regrets has happened and he understands that local residents would be very concerned. As soon as Statistics New Zealand was made aware of the situation the collector was interviewed and he resigned. The collector has been replaced, and collection of census forms is proceeding in the area in which he was working.

“We are very disappointed that someone has slipped through our system,” said Mr Pink.

“It is essential that our collectors are trustworthy and reliable. Before appointing census collectors, we follow a rigorous process which includes interviews, reference checking and a declaration of any previous criminal convictions. These are standard and appropriate processes for recruiting staff.”

The collector failed to disclose previous criminal convictions and the reference checks also did not reveal any cause for concern.

“Review of his work in the delivery phase by his district supervisor – which is our normal practice – showed it to be of a high standard,” said Mr Pink. “We are certain that there has been no risk to the households in the area where he was working.”

“Statistics New Zealand greatly appreciates the dedication of the 6,400 collectors, whose work is vital to the success of the census,” said Mr Pink, “and we look forward to the New Zealand community’s continued cooperation through the collection phase.”

Brian Pink

Government Statistician

ENDS

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