Shane Jones' new job raises Ministerial interference questions

The Public Service Association says the announcement that Labour MP Shane Jones is to move to a new ‘ambassador-level’ role created by Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully raises questions about the politicisation of the public service.

Brenda Pilott, PSA National Secretary, said “The neutrality of our public service is harmed by appointments made, and jobs created, for political reasons.”

“Was MFAT Chief Executive John Allen involved in the development of this role, or was it created on the whim of the Minister?

“Ministerial involvement in operational matters harms the core principles of our public service.

“MFAT staff have a right to feel aggrieved when politicians are appointed over the top of them into ambassadorial roles.

“Hard working MFAT staff deserve career progression, not being left behind while Ministers play politics,” said Brenda Pilott.

Ends

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