Media Statement From The State Services Commissioner

The State Services Commissioner, Michael Wintringham, said today that the decision of the Employment Court in the Rankin case confirmed the broad principles upon which the Public Service management system operates.

"The decision confirms the principles upon which the State Services Commissioner acts as the 'employer' of Public Service chief executives, and the exercise of duties and obligations that the Commissioner has in that role.

"I have been confident that I have treated Mrs Rankin fairly, and discharged my statutory responsibilities properly. The judgment effectively confirms my view."

Mr Wintringham said: "In the last few weeks I have been impressed by the way in which frontline staff at the Department of Work and Income have conducted themselves despite the intense pressure that the case has bought. I commend the department for the way in which it has operated in this difficult period.

"Before the end of August, I expect to announce the name of the chief executive who will lead the new Ministry of Social Development from 1 October.

"At that point, the Ministry will be able to focus on its work of improving the lot of the most disadvantaged people in our community, without the pressure of constant public attention and sustained and intense media coverage.

"Finally, this matter will be behind us."

ENDS

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