In a media statement issued today the Prime Minister recognised that unions can play an important role in achieving quality public services, and endorsed the Public Services Association's partnership model as a means of achieving this.

She went on to say:

The government agrees with the PSA that it is essential to construct a quality public service.

This need is especially so after a long period during which the capability of public sector agencies has not been adequately maintained.

That is why today I am endorsing a set of features which the government agrees with the PSA would characterise a quality public service.

A quality public service is one that:

· Has sufficient capacity to deliver effectively and efficiently, the government's overall social, economic and environmental policy.

· Recognises and applies the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.

· Strengthens management and employee commitment to the delivery of quality public services.

· Is recognised domestically and internationally as providing quality public services to the nation.

· Adapts and responds to the changing needs of the community.

· Provides quality jobs with fair remuneration, to public service employees and invests in their professional development.

· Promotes quality management and leadership practice that is inclusive of employees at all levels of the organisation.

The government recognises that unions can play an important role in achieving such a public service and that the PSA is promoting an active partnership model as a means of achieving this, and endorses such an approach.

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