Source: New Zealand Parliament
Independent consultant Debbie Francis released her report into the improvements made to the parliamentary work culture, titled Culture in the New Zealand Parliamentary Workplace – A future excellence horizon.
In 2019, the Independent External Review into Bullying and Harassment in the New Zealand Parliamentary Workplace was commissioned. This review, also undertaken by Debbie Francis, made over 80 recommendations to improve the culture of the parliamentary workplace.
Most recommendations made in the 2019 report have been completed, including appointing an Independent Commissioner, establishing new confidential channels to report concerns, and progressing a safer work programme.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt Hon Adrian Rurawhe notes the significant improvements made to the parliamentary workforce in the last four years are due to the collaborative efforts of all staff, agencies, and parties at Parliament.
“Together, we have made great strides in our commitments to improve workplace culture. It is a journey that we will continue to move forward with”, the Speaker said.
“Today, Debbie Francis has released her review of progress in her Culture in the New Zealand Parliamentary Workplace – A future excellence horizon. This snapshot of our culture illustrates a story of the gains that we’ve made to date, and the possible opportunities going forward.”
The Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) has agreed to discuss how it will respond to the report at its next meeting in August 2023.
“We expect that the guidance and the opportunities represented in the report steer us to deliver even greater progress in our journey to strengthen the parliamentary culture.”
More information on this work can be found on Parliament’s website.
ENDS
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