DoC jobs in balance

Northland Department of Conservation staff could wait months before learning whose jobs are safe and what proposed restructuring will look like. The picture has changed, with the department responsible for looking after about one-third of New Zealand's land mass winning a $20 million reprieve from cuts that would have axed or altered around 140 jobs.

The $20 million budget top-up Conservation Minister Nick Smith announced this week reflects widespread concern about the effect earlier, tougher cuts might have had on the department's frontline staff and core conservation business.

Only a month ago DoC's Director-General Al Morrison announced a proposed restructuring to help save $8.7 million, affecting 140 staff not working in frontline jobs, and resulting in a flatter management structure. It is now estimated 80 staff positions will go but even then, with a review still under way on the possible shape of jobs, roles and boundaries, some of those staff could be employed in different roles.

Dr Smith and Mr Morrison said the extra funding of $5 million a year over four years would be tagged for 60 extra frontline staff and upgrading recreational facilities. It will enable investment in a number of priority recreational projects such as upgrading the Tongariro Crossing and on-going work with cycleway projects, he said. It will also go toward new ranger, visitor information and support positions at local offices and visitors centres across the country.

No one from DoC in Northland or the national office is able to tell Northern Advocate whether Northland facilities, staff and the Far North railway-cycleway are in the frame at this stage.

"DoC remains fully committed to the changes we have under way. The department has to adopt a new simpler regional structure and connect more effectively with conservation partners, if we are to meet the challenges ahead," Mr Morrison said.