Conservation funding boost welcomed

The Public Service Association (PSA) is welcoming the $24.6m funding boost for the Department of Conservation announced today by Conservation Minister Chris Carter.

The PSA represents staff working for the Department and both parties have signed a formal Partnership for Quality agreement pledging to work together to improve services and build better careers.

PSA National Secretary Brenda Pilott said the new investment in core functions comes at a critical time for the Department which has recently reorganised itself to meet growing pressure for its services and rising costs.

“Long term planning for departments like DoC can be difficult because much of their funding comes tagged for specific purposes, meaning the value of core operational funding erodes over time.

“The PSA is pleased that the government has accepted the case we made to invest in the Department’s core functions in this budget.

“Salaries paid to conservation staff have been lagging behind other workers, so we are pleased that this extra funding will also mean the Department can have a proper discussion with us about how they can be improved.

“Strong public services are the backbone of a successful economy and society. This additional funding is recognition of the major contribution DoC makes to the quality of life enjoyed by all New Zealanders and to through tourism and our reputation as a clean, green country,” Brenda Pilott said.

© Scoop Media