Public servants do their best, but slow to admit mistakes – survey

Most people trust public servants to be honest and helpful, until things go wrong. (Image: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade)

Jem Traylen

Mon, 29 Jan 2024

Most people think public servants are honest, fair, and trying their best, but they are also slow to take on board feedback and take responsibility for their mistakes.According to survey findings released by the Public Service Commission last week, about two-thirds of people thought public servants were generally honest, did their best to help New Zealanders, treated people fairly and with respect, and were there when people needed them.But only about half think public servants understood their needs, worked with other government agencies to me...

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