Kia ora Liam Hehir,
 
On behalf of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment I
acknowledge your email of 5/11/2024 requesting, under the Official
Information Act 1982, the following:
I am writing to request information under the Official Information Act
1982. My request pertains to the decision made by the Ministry to have
staff attend training by The Pâkehâ Project, a programme that, according
to recent media coverage and its own promotional materials, appears to
focus on themes that may be perceived as overtly political, particularly
concerning decolonisation and systemic change.

Given the principles of political neutrality and stewardship required
under the Public Service Act 2020, I am seeking detailed information on
the rationale, decision-making, and assessment processes involved.
Specifically, I request the following:

Cost and Analysis: The total amount spent by the Ministry on staff
attendance at The Pâkehâ Project, including registration, travel,
accommodation, and other expenses. Additionally, any cost-benefit analysis
or justification made prior to approving the expenditure.

Effectiveness and Outcomes: Documentation or reports detailing the
measurable outcomes or benefits observed following staff participation,
along with any evaluations of the programme’s success or impact on
departmental objectives.

Approval and Decision-Making: The names or titles of officials who
authorised the expenditure, along with any records of internal discussions
or concerns raised about the appropriateness or potential political nature
of the programme.

Political Neutrality: Any steps taken to ensure compliance with the
principle of political neutrality, including an assessment of whether the
programme’s emphasis on decolonization could conflict with public service
requirements.

Alternative Options: Records detailing whether any alternative cultural
competency training programmes were considered, and the rationale for
selecting The Pâkehâ Project over other available options.

I am particularly interested in understanding how the decision to engage
with this programme aligns with public service obligations to remain
apolitical while pursuing professional development.
 
We will endeavour to respond to your request as soon as possible, and no
later than 3/12/2024, being 20 working days after the day your request was
received. If we are unable to respond to your request by then, we will
notify you of an extension of that timeframe. If you have any enquiries
regarding your request feel free to contact us via email to
[1][MBIE request email].
 
Nâku noa, nâ
Ministerial Services
Corporate Services, Finance  & Enablement
Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment
15 Stout Street, Wellington 6011 |  P O Box 1473 Wellington 6140

References

Visible links
1. mailto:[MBIE request email]

Kia ora
 
Please see attached a letter in response to your request for information
under the Official Information Act 1982.

Ngā mihi nui,

Ministerial Services
Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment

15 Stout Street, Wellington 6011 | PO Box 1473, Wellington 6140