Govt sets cap on public servants of 38,859

A cap has been set on the number of workers in the public service.

State Services Minister Tony Ryall has set the number at 38,859 based on the number of full time employees at the end of December last year. He says putting a cap on the number of workers will provide greater flexibility in re-balancing staff numbers and resources between and within organisations.

Mr Ryall expects the number of communications staff will be reduced, but he is adamant the cap does not mean a cut to the public service. He says it is about making more resources available for frontline services.

- NEWSTALK