New Zealand government is leaking info and finding a culprit in media

Government email leak reveals crackdown on public servants
Such is the state of affairs within the New Zealand government that an email to ensure sensitive information is not leaked to the media also finds its way to news outlets. The leaked internal email revealed a new crackdown by the New Zealand government aimed at stopping unauthorized disclosures by public servants. The message, attributed to Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche, urged employees to cease leaking sensitive information, emphasizing that such actions violate the core values of the public service.

The email was circulated on May 22, hours after RNZ reported on a court injunction blocking its publication of confidential pre-Budget documents. Roche instructed agency heads to investigate leaks thoroughly and remove responsible employees where appropriate. He highlighted that leaking information undermines the government of the day and breaches the public service code of conduct.

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Education Ministry initiates external leak investigation
In response to continued leaks, the Education Ministry announced an independent investigation led by Michael Heron KC. The ministry’s acting deputy secretary, Rob Campbell, sent an email to staff expressing concern over recent unauthorized disclosures damaging organizational trust and professionalism.

The ministry invited RNZ to discuss potential information shared with the outlet, an invitation RNZ declined to protect confidential sources. Campbell’s message noted that breaches compromise the integrity of the public service and confirmed plans to review information-sharing protocols and internal policies, including the ministry’s Speak Up policy and protected disclosure guidelines.

Ongoing leak incidents across public service agencies
Recent months have seen multiple leak incidents within New Zealand’s public service. RNZ reported documents indicating planned cuts to the $118 million Kahui Ako education program and internal feedback on health data team reductions. Leaked reports from the Interislanders ferries advisory group and material relating to the Treaty Principles Bill also surfaced.

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The government’s inability to control these leaks points to systemic issues in managing sensitive information. Public Service Commissioner Roche reiterated the need for chief executives to uphold confidentiality and maintain public trust, reinforcing consequences for those responsible for leaks.

Opposition voices highlight culture of frustration among public servants
Critics argue that the prevalence of leaks reflects deeper dissatisfaction within the public service. Green Party public service spokesperson Francisco Hernandez linked the issue to ministers allegedly ignoring or censoring evidence-based advice, fostering frustration among officials. Hernandez acknowledged that while leaks are not condoned, they are symptomatic of an unhealthy culture and diminishing respect for democratic principles.

Hernandez called for a balanced approach, urging the Public Service Commissioner to ensure ministers respect the neutrality and integrity of the public service alongside cracking down on leaks.

FAQs on New Zealand Government leaks and public service investigations

What actions has the New Zealand government taken to address leaks by public servants?
The government has issued internal warnings through emails from Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche, emphasizing that leaks violate public service values. Additionally, agencies are instructed to investigate leaks thoroughly and take disciplinary actions, including termination when appropriate. The Education Ministry has also launched an independent external investigation led by Michael Heron KC.

Why did RNZ decline to participate in the Education Ministry’s leak investigation?
RNZ declined the invitation to meet with the Education Ministry’s investigator to protect the confidentiality of its sources. Protecting anonymous sources is a core journalistic principle and is key to maintaining trust and information flow.

What kinds of information have been leaked recently within New Zealand’s public service?
Recent leaks have included confidential pre-Budget documents, plans to cut the $118 million Kahui Ako education program, internal feedback on health data team reductions, reports from the Interislanders ferries advisory group, and material related to the Treaty Principles Bill.

What concerns have been raised about the culture within New Zealand’s public service related to leaks?
Critics suggest leaks are a symptom of frustration among public servants who feel their evidence-based advice is ignored or censored by ministers. This dissatisfaction is seen as contributing to an unhealthy culture and declining respect for democratic processes.