IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 17 June 2021
12.30-1.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
4.
Workforce Mobility Hub
Next Tuesday (June 22) we are hosting a virtual Agency Workforce Leads (AWL) meeting. Thank
you to those agencies that have confirmed attendance. We currently have 32 confirmed
attendees. Where the AWL is unable to attend, they are welcome to nominate someone to
attend on their behalf. We encourage the remaining agencies to confirm attendance as soon as
possible.
The session will involve 2 review retrospectives on recent mobility activities:
1.
Deployment: The first is the ongoing Ministry of Health (MOH) Immunisation and
Vaccination Programme recruitment drive. MoH wil be speaking about the process from
their perspective and then two contributing agencies will speak about the process they
used to publicise the opportunities.
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 1 July 2021
12.30-1.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID-19 Update
We hope you and your agencies have come through Alert Level 2 for Wellington and region successfully.
If any agencies had any new issues that arose during the Wellington Alert Level 2 please let us know.
This past week has provided a good opportunity to internal y review how your BCP plan worked and
update it, if needed.
It is also a good reminder to be vigilant in practising the right behaviours including scanning wherever
possible, wearing face masks on public transport or where unable to social distance, hand washing and
staying home if unwel .
Given the appearance of new variants – Delta in particular - there is policy work underway to consider
whether additional measures might be needed to strengthen NZ’s response. This could include changes
to what is needed at each Alert Level (for example, you will have heard a lot of discussion from experts
with regards to use of face masks and whether or not scanning should be mandatory in some
circumstances).
Please be alert for possible changes. We will share information with you as soon as we have it. The MoH
website remains the accurate source of truth.
Vaccination planning for Group 3 and Group 4 is underway. We are seeking more information from MoH
regarding the possibility of workplace vaccinations. Again, we will share more information when it
becomes available.
Key contact: [email address]
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 1 July 2021
3.30-4.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID-19 Update
We hope you and your agencies have come through Alert Level 2 for Wel ington and region successful y.
This past week has provided a good opportunity to internal y review how your BCP plan worked and
update it, if needed.
It is also a good reminder to be vigilant in practising the right behaviours including scanning wherever
possible, wearing face coverings on public transport, and staying home if unwel .
Given the appearance of new variants – Delta in particular - there is policy work underway to consider
whether additional measures might be needed to strengthen NZ’s response. This could include changes
to what is needed at each Alert Level (for example, you will have heard a lot of discussion from experts
with regards to use of face masks and whether or not scanning should be mandatory in some
circumstances).
Please be alert for possible changes. We will share information with you as soon as we have it. The MoH
website remains the accurate source of truth.
Vaccination planning for Group 3 and Group 4 is underway. We are seeking more information from MoH
regarding the possibility of workplace vaccinations. Again, we will share more information when it
becomes available.
Key contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 15 July 2021
3.30-4.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
out of scope
3.
COVID-19
3a. Vaccination Plans
As you wil be aware, the current COVID-19 rol out is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest ever immunisation
programme. Workplaces, including the public service, have an important role to play to support the
programme’s success. To make getting the COVID-19 vaccine easy and convenient for workers, some
workplaces will be eligible to offer vaccinations at their workplace if they meet size and equity criteria.
The Ministry of Health is now seeking joint expressions of interest (EOI) from vaccination providers and
workplaces that would like to partner to deliver vaccinations in the workplace.
You can read about the basic requirements and eligibility criteria in this 2-page overview.
To help decide if your workplace is a strong candidate for workplace vaccinations, the Ministry of Health,
with support from Te Kawa Mataaho, wil be hosting a webinar, for HR Heads and/or OH&S Leads, about
the simple EOI process on Tuesday 20 July, 11:15am -12:15pm.
Ministry of Health representatives wil discuss what’s required to offer workplace vaccinations, the EOI
process, and wil be available to answer your questions. The invitation to this webinar will be sent to you
shortly.
Please note that because of the pace of the vaccination rol out programme,
Expressions of Interest
close very shortly at 12pm on 23 July. While workplaces, who meet the criteria, are encouraged to
express interest in this programme, we encourage you to also consider other ways you can support
workers getting a vaccine. Public Service workforce guidance on this matter will be updated.
Te Kawa Mataaho are updating our vaccination guidance and will let you know when it is live.
Key contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
2
IN CONFIDENCE
Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 15 July 2021
3.30-4.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID-19 Update
2a. Update on workforce aspects
As you wil be aware, the current COVID-19 rollout is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest ever immunisation
programme. Workplaces, including the public service, have an important role to play to support the
programme’s success. To make getting the COVID-19 vaccine easy and convenient for workers, some
workplaces will be eligible to offer vaccinations at their workplace if they meet size and equity criteria.
The Ministry of Health is now seeking joint expressions of interest (EOI) from vaccination providers and
workplaces that would like to partner to deliver vaccinations in the workplace.
You can read about the basic requirements and eligibility criteria in this 2-page overview.
To help decide if your workplace is a strong candidate for workplace vaccinations, the Ministry of Health,
with support from Te Kawa Mataaho, wil be hosting a webinar, for HR Heads and/or OH&S Leads, about
the simple EOI process on Tuesday 20 July, 11:15am -12:15pm.
Ministry of Health representatives wil discuss what’s required to offer workplace vaccinations, the EOI
process, and wil be available to answer your questions. The invitation to this webinar will be sent to you
shortly.
Please note that because of the pace of the vaccination rol out programme,
Expressions of Interest
close very shortly at 12pm on 23 July. While workplaces, who meet the criteria, are encouraged to
express interest in this programme, we encourage you to also consider other ways you can support
workers getting a vaccine. Public Service workforce guidance on this matter will be updated.
Te Kawa Mataaho are updating our vaccination guidance and will let you know when it is live.
Key contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
2b. Workforce Mobility Hub (Anna)
The Government COVID-19 work area has three lines of work:
1. Keep it Out
2. Vaccinate
3. What the future might like for NZ.
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 29 July 2021
12.30-1.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
out of scope
9.
COVID Vaccination Programme
Thank you to those who attended the COVID Workplace Vaccination Webinar last week. Further to this,
please find below links to material for your agencies.
Campaign material for the workplace / storefronts
The Unite Against COVID-19 Vaccination campaign material is now available to the public to download,
print and share. Visit: covid19.govt.nz/vaccine-campaign-resources.
You can now access the “Possibilities” poster suite, a poster on recognising misinformation, the
“Everything You Need to Know” flyer, and Vaccination Facts and Influencer videos. Further assets and
translated versions wil be added as these are developed.
Workplace signage
Signage, posters and social media tiles for the workplace (contract tracing, hygiene actions to protect
yourself and others, etc.) are available here: covid19.govt.nz/posters.
Handling false information
If you are a workplace with staff or volunteers receiving queries about false information, guidance on
responding to false or misleading information is available here: Guidance-on-responding-to-false-
information.pdf (covid19.govt.nz)
Te Kawa Mataaho guidance
Our guidance has been updated to reflect the latest information on the role of workplaces in the
vaccination programme COVID-19 Vaccination Rol -out Guidance | Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service
Commission
Feel free to share this material with col eagues and stakeholders.
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
3
IN CONFIDENCE
Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 29 July 2021
3.30-4.00pm
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
out of scope
5.
COVID Vaccination Programme
Thank you to those who attended the COVID Workplace Vaccination Webinar last week. Further to this,
please find below links to material for your agencies.
Campaign material for the workplace / storefronts
The Unite Against COVID-19 Vaccination campaign material is now available to the public to download,
print and share. Visit: covid19.govt.nz/vaccine-campaign-resources.
You can now access the “Possibilities” poster suite, a poster on recognising misinformation, the
“Everything You Need to Know” flyer, and Vaccination Facts and Influencer videos. Further assets and
translated versions wil be added as these are developed.
Workplace signage
Signage, posters and social media tiles for the workplace (contract tracing, hygiene actions to protect
yourself and others, etc.) are available here: covid19.govt.nz/posters.
Handling false information
If you are a workplace with staff or volunteers receiving queries about false information, guidance on
responding to false or misleading information is available here: Guidance-on-responding-to-false-
information.pdf (covid19.govt.nz)
Te Kawa Mataaho guidance
Our guidance has been updated to reflect the latest information on the role of workplaces in the
vaccination programme COVID-19 Vaccination Rol -out Guidance | Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service
Commission
Feel free to share this material with col eagues and stakeholders.
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
2
IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 12 August 2021
12.30-1.00pm
Key Points and Actions
1.
Welcome
Dale opened the meeting.
2.
COVID-19 Update
This morning, the Prime Minister launched the Reconnecting New Zealand strategy, which outlines how
NZ will safely open borders and drive the economy forward, while sticking with the stamp it out strategy
that has led our strong COVID response so far. More information is available here: Reconnecting New
Zealanders to the World | Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz)
Of significant importance is continuing to support as many New Zealanders as possible to be
vaccinated. Our guidance sets the expectation that al public servants wil be vaccinated. Please ensure
you are working proactively on your agency vaccination plan and encouraging staff to take advantage
of the vaccination options made available by their local DHB.
High levels of vaccination are necessary to support the Reconnecting NZ strategy because of the risks
associated with the Delta variant. Minister Hipkins was reported through a range of channels on
Wednesday, signal ing that in the event of detected community transmission of the Delta variant, it is
likely NZ would move much faster to Alert Level 3 or 4 than has occurred previously. While more
information wil be shared as it comes to hand, the latest Ministry of Health information will be made
available shortly here: https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-
coronavirus/covid-19-response-planning/covid-19-elimination-strategy-aotearoa-new-zealand
We wil update our guidance and advice on the Te Kawa Mataaho website shortly.
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 12 August 2021
12.30-1.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID-19 Update
This morning, the Prime Minister launched the Reconnecting New Zealand strategy, which outlines how
NZ will safely open borders and drive the economy forward, while sticking with the stamp it out strategy
that has led our strong COVID response so far. More information is available here: Reconnecting New
Zealanders to the World | Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz)
Of significant importance is continuing to support as many New Zealanders as possible to be
vaccinated. Our guidance sets the expectation that al public servants will be vaccinated. Please ensure
you are working proactively on your agency vaccination plan and encouraging staff to take advantage of
the vaccination options made available by their local DHB.
High levels of vaccination are necessary to support the Reconnecting NZ strategy because of the risks
associated with the Delta variant. Minister Hipkins was reported through a range of channels on
Wednesday, signal ing that in the event of detected community transmission of the Delta variant, it is
likely NZ would move much faster to Alert Level 3 or 4 than has occurred previously. While more
information will be shared as it comes to hand, the latest Ministry of Health information will be made
available shortly here: https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-
coronavirus/covid-19-response-planning/covid-19-elimination-strategy-aotearoa-new-zealand
We wil update our guidance and advice on the Te Kawa Mataaho website shortly.
Key contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
Special COVID Meeting: Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Friday 20 August 2021
4.30-5.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
4.
Vaccinations: Essential Workers
We want to understand where there may be a need in agencies for vaccination of those who are seen as
‘essential workers’ who are or wil be in regular contact with members of the public, and may not be
directly captured by the policy on Schedule 2. This is for those beyond the workers already prioritised
such as prison offices, Police and Nurses.
Please note that there is a large workforce in supermarkets and some workers of DHL and NZ Post who
are responsible for ensuring our vaccine supplies get to where they need to go, who will be given first
priority
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
Key messages on vaccinations:
• Those who have booked vaccinations should proceed with those.
• Agencies should identify groups/numbers of essential workers who will have regular face to face
contact with members of the public while carrying out essential services and get ready to provide
detail on the number and location of roles where prioritised vaccinations may be sought. Agencies
may also wish to add detail on ‘back-up’ numbers if staff need replacing.
• PSC will then liaise again with the Ministry of Health on whether and how these workers might be
able to be fed into the processes they are running and provide feedback and guidance to agencies
accordingly.
Key contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
5.
Vaccinations: Workplace Vaccination EOIs
For those agencies that provided an EOI to participate in Workplace Vaccination, we understand from
MoH that this process may be slowed a little, to give priority to essential workers.
We ask for patience while MoH continue to be agile in managing prioritisation.
More information will be shared as soon as it becomes available.
Key contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
IN CONFIDENCE
2
IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 26 August 2021
12.30-1.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID
A. Vaccinations Update
In order to support getting essential front line/customer contact workforces vaccinated we need to
have an idea of the size and scale of these workforces. Earlier this week you wil have received an
email seeking data from your agency on the numbers and roles to be considered for this. Please
ensure you get this advice for your agency back to Te Kawa Mataaho by close of play Friday 27 August.
Also note that it is staff who need to vaccinated at any Alert level, not limited to AL4.
Key contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
Question from meeting: Do you know the timing for vaccinations for our front liners?
Response: Not yet. Once we have engaged again with Ministry of Health fol owing your feedback we
will share the likely timeframe and options .
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 26 August 2021
3.30-4.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
out of scope
Question: Is vaccination information considered health information around privacy treatment?
Response: Yes, this information is subject to privacy requirements. You can’t require someone to disclose
whether or not they are vaccinated. However, you can ask if person is going into a role that requires
vaccination, and if they don’t answer you are able to treat this as if they are not vaccinated.
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
2
IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 9 September 2021
12.30-100pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
out of scope
5.
Workforce Mobility Hub
a) Workplace Vaccinations
MoH has been in touch with the vaccination providers indicated by those agencies that submitted
an EOI to participate in Workplace Vaccination. They are working with vaccination providers at
present to understand their capacity, prioritise workplaces, and discuss updated estimated
numbers of unvaccinated populations at each site.
IN CONFIDENCE
2
IN CONFIDENCE
Please note that some workplaces may now not have the numbers at each site to make it viable for
the provider to deliver workplace vaccinations – particularly those with a large proportion of
essential workers who are getting (prioritised) vaccination from the DHBs. MoH hope to know by the
end of next week which workplaces will be able to offer workplace vaccinations and where.
For those workplaces where numbers are sufficient to proceed, the timing of delivery of workplace
vaccination wil be impacted by whether or not your chosen provider is already set up in MoH’s
systems and have experience delivering the Pfizer vaccine, or whether they are still in the process of
being onboarded and trained. Vaccination wil also be impacted by safe workplace return (as
determined by the guidance under the various Alert Levels).
For more information, please contact
your chosen workplace vaccination provider.
Irrespective of whether you are hoping to participate in the workplace vaccination programme, al
agencies are encouraged to continue to support employees to visit BookMyVaccine.nz, which is
now open to everyone aged 12 and over, and make an appointment.
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
3
IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 23 September 2021
12.30-100pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
b) Vaccination Guidance
Our guidance will continue to be updated to keep messages current. We encourage agencies to
strengthen their leadership focus on expecting and supporting staff to be vaccinated if they able to
be as outlined in the Public Service Commission’s Vaccination Guidance (COVID-19 Vaccination Rol -
out Guidance | Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission).
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 23 September 2021
3.30-4.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
Vaccination Guidance
Our guidance will continue to be updated to keep messages current. The key focus remains on the plan,
educate, expect and support framework outlined in the Public Service Commission’s Vaccination
Guidance with an expectation agencies wil increase the focus on leading out on expect and support for
their staff to get as many staff vaccinated as can be (COVID-19 Vaccination Rol -out Guidance | Te Kawa
Mataaho Public Service Commission).
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 7 October 2021
12.30-1.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
out of scope
b) Vaccinations
Vaccination is a critical priority for NZ over the next couple of months. With more of us ful y
vaccinated, the more protection we’l have against COVID-19. This will give us more freedom. It will
reduce the impact of COVID resurgence on the people in our communities, reduce the number of
hospitalisations and impact on health sector workers, reduce impact on businesses and increase the
pace with which the government can advance the reconnecting NZ approach.
Dr Bloomfield sent a letter (4 October) to your Chief Executive’s asking them to consider how to
support New Zealand to achieve the highest possible vaccination rates, especial y among
underrepresented populations, with the aim of achieving at least 90% of the eligible population fully
vaccinated by Christmas. We ask that you do al you can to support your Chief Executive.
As previously shared, the Public Service Commissioner has an expectation that all public servants who
can be vaccinated, wil be. A number of you have applied for and been successful in offering
workplace vaccination. This has been a successful addition to the suite of options for vaccination. As
at 5 Oct 2021, the total number of workplace vaccinations through the MoH national y contracted
programme, including the public sector, was 82,611.
There are a range of ways you can support your workforce (and wider community, including friends
and family) to be vaccinated:
•
A pop-up vaccination clinic opens at Parliament today (7 October). This is available to all,
including public servants, their whānau and the wider public. Information on this has been sent
out to you al last night and to Heads of Communication (for core public service agencies).
•
‘Super Saturday’ nationwide vaccination drive. Yesterday Minister Hipkins announced a
national day of action on vaccination: ‘Super Saturday’, 16 October. Vaccination clinics wil be
open throughout Aotearoa all day, and the evening. Workplaces, media and community leaders
are asked to support vaccination by mobilising people with effective messaging and appropriate
incentives. An information webinar for government agency Heads of Comms is being held 7
October, 3.00-3.30pm. Please let us know if you need more information on this.
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
•
Information on locations of vaccination sites is available here: Walk-in and drive-through COVID-
19 vaccination centres | Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz)
•
You can book a vaccination here: www.bookmyvaccine.nz
•
Information on the COVID vaccine, including the facts about COVID-19 vaccination, can be found
here.
We ask you to do al you can in support of your Chief Executive, to encourage your agency employees,
wider community and friends and family to take up the opportunity to be vaccinated.
There are discussions occurring in some channels with regard to timeframes between vaccination
doses. We are waiting on formal advice from MOH and wil provide this when it is published. The
important thing to remember is that people need to get two doses to be fully vaccinated.
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
2
IN CONFIDENCE
Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 7 October 2021
3.30-4.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID-19
a) Vaccinations
Vaccination is a critical priority for NZ over the next couple of months. With more of us ful y
vaccinated, the more protection we’l have against COVID-19. This will give us more freedom. It will
reduce the impact of COVID resurgence on the people in our communities, reduce the number of
hospitalisations and impact on health sector workers, reduce impact on businesses and increase the
pace with which the government can advance the reconnecting NZ approach.
Dr Bloomfield sent a letter (4 October) to your Chief Executive’s asking them to consider how to
support New Zealand to achieve the highest possible vaccination rates, especial y among
underrepresented populations, with the aim of achieving at least 90% of the eligible population ful y
vaccinated by Christmas. We ask that you do al you can to support your Chief Executive.
As previously shared, the Public Service Commissioner has an expectation that all public servants who
can be vaccinated, wil be. A number of you have applied for and been successful in offering
workplace vaccination. This has been a successful addition to the suite of options for vaccination. As
at 5 Oct 2021, the total number of workplace vaccinations through the MoH national y contracted
programme, including the public sector, was 82,611.
There are a range of ways you can support your workforce (and wider community, including friends
and family) to be vaccinated:
•
A pop-up vaccination clinic opens at Parliament today (7 October). This is available to all,
including public servants, their whānau and the wider public. Information on this has been sent
out to you al last night and to Heads of Communication (for core public service agencies).
•
‘Super Saturday’ nationwide vaccination drive. Yesterday Minister Hipkins announced a
national day of action on vaccination: ‘Super Saturday’, 16 October. Vaccination clinics wil be
open throughout Aotearoa all day, and the evening. Workplaces, media and community leaders
are asked to support vaccination by mobilising people with effective messaging and appropriate
incentives. An information webinar for government agency Heads of Comms is being held 7
October, 3.00-3.30pm. Please let us know if you need more information on this.
•
Information on locations of vaccination sites is available here: Walk-in and drive-through COVID-
19 vaccination centres | Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz)
•
You can book a vaccination here: www.bookmyvaccine.nz
•
Information on the COVID vaccine, including the facts about COVID-19 vaccination, can be found
here.
We ask you to do al you can in support of your Chief Executive, to encourage your agency employees,
wider community and friends and family to take up the opportunity to be vaccinated.
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
There are discussions occurring in some channels with regard to timeframes between vaccination
doses. We are waiting on formal advice from MOH and wil provide this when it is published. The
important thing to remember is that people need to get two doses to be fully vaccinated.
Contact:9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
2
A letter to all public servants,
In times of need the Public Service stands ready to support New Zealand
Every day as public servants, you put the interests of New Zealanders at the forefront of everything
you do. And right now, getting vaccinated is the most important public service you can perform.
This year I set an expectation that all public servants who could get vaccinated, would get vaccinated,
and our Chief Executives have been supporting you to do this.
I want to thank all of you who have already been vaccinated. For those of you who haven’t yet, I urge
you to do so without delay.
But my message to everyone is that the job is not done yet.
I am asking you to lend your support to get New Zealand vaccinated. It has been an incredible effort
to get us to this point, and now we all need to make sure no-one is left behind.
Please reach out and support your colleagues, whānau, families and communities to get vaccinated.
It can be as simple as being open about your own experience, having an honest conversation with
someone who is hesitating, or offering a small act of support.
You can access resources to help you with those conversations here and answers to common
questions about the vaccine here on the Unite Against COVID website.
We know that every positive act to encourage vaccination helps, and this is a public service that we
can all perform.
Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi | With your food basket and my food basket the people
will thrive
Peter Hughes (he/him)
Te Tumu Whakarae mō Te Kawa Mataaho
Public Service Commissioner | Head of Service
IN CONFIDENCE
Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 21 October 2021
12.30-1.30pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
Context
a) Plan, Educate, Expect, Support Framework
David outlined the current guidance framework of plan, education, expect and support and
emphasised that this is the primary approach to supporting the vaccination effort and keeping the
workplaces safe.
The framework was put in place before we had Delta in the community. Now is the time to revisit
plans to ensure they are fit for purpose in the changed context and the progress in the vaccination
effort. Education may need to include discussions on what you are doing other than vaccination to
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
keep workplaces safe. Now we are nearing 80% vaccination, consider the support you can provide to
the remaining 20%. This may need to change from earlier efforts.
The Government is considering a framework for decision-making on what work may need to be done
only by vaccinated workers. This is in addition to existing mandates (MIQ, border, Education and
Health). We don’t have timeframes on when this wil be implemented.
b) Communications Material
We will seek to keep new and updated information flowing through to you as quickly as
possible. Some key sources of information include (but are not limited to):
Te Kawa Mataaho guidance published on the Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission
website. Some key links are as fol ows:
COVID-19 Public Sector Workforce Guidelines | Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission
COVID-19 Workforce Frequently Asked Questions | Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission
COVID-19 Vaccination Rol -out Guidance | Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission
MoH website for the latest health advice including:
MoH: COVID-19 vaccines | Ministry of Health NZ
Unite Communications website (the key communications arm for COVID in NZ) COVID-19 vaccines |
Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz) has a wealth of information including
Information on mandatory vaccinations: Mandatory vaccinations for workers | Unite against COVID-
19 (covid19.govt.nz)
Getting proof of being vaccinated (relevant until Covid Vaccine Certificates are introduced): Getting
proof of your COVID-19 vaccination | Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz)
Vaccine information for businesses: Vaccine information for businesses | Unite against COVID-19
(covid19.govt.nz)
Vaccine toolkit for businesses: COVID-19 vaccine - Pasifika toolkit (covid19.govt.nz)
Worksafe website: Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) | WorkSafe
How to decide what work requires a vaccinated employee How to decide what work requires a
vaccinated employee | WorkSafe
Operating safely – what you need to think about, which includes template safety plans: Operating
safely – what you need to think about | WorkSafe
MBIE guidance on Vaccines and the Workplace: Vaccines and the workplace » Employment New
Zealand
Guidance on ventilation and water: Water and ventilation system safety in reoccupied buildings |
Building Performance
Government Health and Safety Lead website: Home | Government Health and Safety Lead
Includes agency guidance on COVID-19 and links to many of the other sites listed here: COVID-19
(Novel Coronavirus) agency guidance | Government Health and Safety Lead
Government Property and Procurement website: COVID-19 property update – for agencies | New
Zealand Government Procurement and Property
Includes information on emergency procurement and guidance for managing property workplaces
during COVID-19: COVID-19 Government Property workplace guidelines (procurement.govt.nz)
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3.
Privacy Issues
Sarah Borrell outlined that although this is a rapidly changing environment the underlying principles of
privacy still stand. The important elements to consider regarding vaccination of employees are:
1. You can only ask an employee for their vaccination status if there is a legitimate need
2. Be clear how you are going to ask for this information; and
3. Be clear how are you going to hold this information.
With the changing environment, the notion of what is ‘legitimate need” is expanding and is likely to
continue to expand over coming months, what remains consistent is the need to adhere to the underlying
principles of privacy.
Link to privacy information: Of ice of the Privacy Commissioner | Information for employers and
employees
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
4.
Assessment Processes
a) Guidance (David)
David gave an overview of the current Te Kawa Mataaho and WorkSafe guidance on undertaking a
health and safety risk assessment of work to determine if it needs to be done by vaccinated
workers. (Refer link under 2b above).
b) Workforces covered by Orders
NZ Customs and MBIE shared their experiences. The discussion covered agency risk frameworks,
including how best to approach assessing your workforce and workplace. Key elements included
assessing:
- What is the work that needs to be done;
- What risk is the person exposed to; and
- what is the best way to manage the risk.
Customs and MBIE discussed how formal Guidance is helpful. However, the reality is that each
agency will need to grip this up for themselves as al work situations are different.
One important point that agencies shared is that when they focused on identifying the individuals
not vaccinated and began working directly with these individuals, the situation changed. Often
individuals had unanswered questions and working directly with them helped resolve individual
concerns. It was noted that individuals do stil choose to not be vaccinated and when this occurred
agencies had a range of options to work through with the individual (e.g. working from home;
redeployment). Agencies are not currently looking at redundancy for unvaccinated individuals.
Once these conversations had been held the overal agency risk assessment was lowered.
HOHR were advised that Worksafe has offered to work with agencies on risk assessments. Please
contact Tina Paterson if you would like to connect with Worksafe at t9(2)(a) privacy
c) Post assessment
As with any significant change we encourage you to consider al plausible opportunities for internal
redeployment of employees who are unvaccinated. Please ensure you advise PSC Workforce and
Employment Relations team if you believe you may have people who cannot be internal y
redeployed. The Hub (Workforce Mobility Hub) in conjunction with MSD, are available to support
employees who seek alternative employment.
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Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
5.
Business Continuity Planning
Ongoing scenario planning for a potential COVID Delta outbreak (outside of Auckland, over summer) is
part of good risk management. Please ensure you are updating your agency BCP workforce plan with
regard to ongoing scenario planning for Delta, including the potential for an outbreak in Wellington
(and/or elsewhere within NZ), that could impact service delivery.
Let us know if assistance is required. Points for consideration include:
• Al agencies are required to maintain BCP plans under the National Response Plan. Please ensure
your agency BCP workforce plan is updated to reflect Delta and lessons learnt from current (and
ongoing) outbreak (e.g. working remotely, roster arrangements and moving staff to the greatest
areas of need).
• The Commissioner’s expectation that al public servants will be vaccinated has been widely
communicated.
• Wellington has one of the higher rates of vaccination in NZ so if there was community transmission
in Wellington, high levels of vaccination may slow the spread and severity of illness. This may
provide some level of mitigation against large scale infection and sections of the public service
workforce in Wellington being unavailable (to provide continuity of service). Please continue to
consider the range of other mitigations you will need in place for the unique circumstances of your
agency.
• Other regions of the country where you have employees may or may not have the same degree of
protection and therefore may need similar or different mitigations.
• As vaccination rates climb, we encourage you to consider how to manage public servants who may
have been in contact with a covid case. Even where vaccination rates are high, you may have some
members of the workforce (and the public who whom they come into contact), who are not
vaccinated. There are a range of potential mitigants to minimise spread within the workforce.
including Self-isolation and working from home.
• Greater deployment of staff across the system may be necessary to maintain essential activity if
there was large scale illness (within an agency/region/area of essential public service). The Hub (PSC
Workforce Mobility Hub) wil continue to work with you and your Agency Workforce Lead to source
people for Covid critical and essential public services.
out of scope
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IN CONFIDENCE
Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 21 October 2021
3.30-4.30pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
• The legal framework is changing with some workforces already subject to mandatory vaccination
orders, others soon to be and cal s for clarity in applying the risk assessment framework.
This changing context means that even the most advanced plans in agencies may need to be revisited
and refined to ensure ongoing protection of employees, the public and to ensure continuity of services
to the community.
Alex set out the purpose of the session today as covering:
• Share with you as much of the information we have about this changing context – noting that this
information is rapidly changing and not always coming to us in the order that you or we might like
• Provide you with an opportunity to share with one another where each of your agencies are at and
to kick start regular communication on these chal enging issues
• Signal that while we know that each of you wil have your own unique set of circumstances (and
there will not be a one size fits al ), there wil be a need for a degree of consistency of approach across
our public service workforces and workplace. Work is underway on this at the Commission, including
how we can advise and support agencies implementing legal requirements.
2.
Context
a) Plan, Educate, Expect, Support Framework
David outlined the current guidance framework of plan, education, expect and support and
emphasised that this is the primary approach to supporting the vaccination effort and keeping the
workplaces safe.
The framework was put in place before we had Delta in the community. Now is the time to revisit
plans to ensure they are fit for purpose in the changed context and the progress in the vaccination
effort. Education may need to include discussions on what you are doing other than vaccination to
keep workplaces safe. Now we are nearing 80% vaccination, consider the support you can provide to
the remaining 20%. This may need to change from earlier efforts.
The Government is considering a framework for decision-making on what work may need to be done
only by vaccinated workers. This is in addition to existing mandates (MIQ, border, Education and
Health). We don’t have timeframes on when this wil be implemented.
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b) Communications Material
With the rapidly evolving nature of the current situation it pays to stay across the key information
sources where updates and new information is being posted. We wil seek to keep new and updated
information flowing through to you as quickly as possible. Some key sources of information include
(but are not limited to):
Te Kawa Mataaho guidance published on the Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission
website. Some key links are as fol ows:
COVID-19 Public Sector Workforce Guidelines | Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission
COVID-19 Workforce Frequently Asked Questions | Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission
COVID-19 Vaccination Rol -out Guidance | Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission
MoH website for the latest health advice including:
MoH: COVID-19 vaccines | Ministry of Health NZ
Unite Communications website (the key communications arm for COVID in NZ) COVID-19 vaccines |
Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz) has a wealth of information including
Information on mandatory vaccinations: Mandatory vaccinations for workers | Unite against COVID-
19 (covid19.govt.nz)
Getting proof of being vaccinated (relevant until Covid Vaccine Certificates are introduced): Getting
proof of your COVID-19 vaccination | Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz)
Vaccine information for businesses: Vaccine information for businesses | Unite against COVID-19
(covid19.govt.nz)
Vaccine toolkit for businesses: COVID-19 vaccine - Pasifika toolkit (covid19.govt.nz)
Worksafe website: Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) | WorkSafe
How to decide what work requires a vaccinated employee How to decide what work requires a
vaccinated employee | WorkSafe
Operating safely – what you need to think about, which includes template safety plans: Operating
safely – what you need to think about | WorkSafe
MBIE guidance on Vaccines and the Workplace: Vaccines and the workplace » Employment New
Zealand
Guidance on ventilation and water: Water and ventilation system safety in reoccupied buildings |
Building Performance
Government Health and Safety Lead website: Home | Government Health and Safety Lead
Includes agency guidance on COVID-19 and links to many of the other sites listed here: COVID-19
(Novel Coronavirus) agency guidance | Government Health and Safety Lead
Government Property and Procurement website: COVID-19 property update – for agencies | New
Zealand Government Procurement and Property
Includes information on emergency procurement and guidance for managing property workplaces
during COVID-19: COVID-19 Government Property workplace guidelines (procurement.govt.nz)
3.
Privacy Issues
Sarah Borrel outlined that although this is a rapidly changing environment the underlying principles of
privacy still stand. The important elements to consider regarding vaccination of employees are:
1. You can only ask an employee for their vaccination status if there is a legitimate need
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2. Be clear how you are going to ask for this information; and
3. Be clear how are you going to hold this information.
With the changing environment, the notion of what is ‘legitimate need” is expanding, and is likely to
continue to expand over coming months. What remains consistent is the need to adhere to the
underlying principles of privacy.
Link to privacy information: Office of the Privacy Commissioner | Information for employers and
employees
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
5.
Business Continuity Planning
Ongoing scenario planning for a potential COVID Delta outbreak (outside of Auckland, over summer) is
part of good risk management. Please ensure you are updating your agency BCP workforce plan with
regard to ongoing scenario planning for Delta, including the potential for an outbreak in Wellington
(and/or elsewhere within NZ), that could impact service delivery.
Let us know if assistance is required. Points for consideration include:
• Al agencies are required to maintain BCP plans under the National Response Plan. Please ensure
your agency BCP workforce plan is updated to reflect Delta and lessons learnt from current (and
ongoing) outbreak (e.g. working remotely, roster arrangements and moving staff to the greatest
areas of need).
• The Commissioner’s expectation that al public servants will be vaccinated has been widely
communicated.
• Wellington has one of the higher rates of vaccination in NZ so if there was community transmission
in Wellington, high levels of vaccination may slow the spread and severity of illness. This may
IN CONFIDENCE
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provide some level of mitigation against large scale infection and sections of the public service
workforce in Wellington being unavailable (to provide continuity of service). Please continue to
consider what other mitigations you will need in place for the unique circumstances of your agency
• Other regions of the country where you have employees may or may not have the same degree of
protection and therefore may need similar or different mitigations
• As vaccination rates climb, we encourage you to consider how to manage public servants who may
have been in contact with a covid case. Even where vaccination rates are high, you may have some
members of the workforce (and the public who whom they come into contact), who are not
vaccinated. To minimise spread within the workforce, self-isolation and working from home may
be some of the plausible mitigants.
• Greater deployment of staff across the system may be necessary to maintain essential activity if
there was large scale illness (within an agency/region/area of essential public service). The Hub (PSC
Workforce Mobility Hub) will reach out to you to source people for Covid critical and essential public
services, should this become necessary.
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Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 4 November 2021
12.30-1.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID-19
a) Vaccinations Update
Sarah provided an overview of areas Te Kawa Mataaho are working to support the public service
implement, specifical y:
1. Government policy and legislation to operationalise the COVID Protection Framework.
2. COVID Vaccination Certificates.
3. Vaccination mandates and risk assessments.
Dairne advised that Ministers have announced upcoming law changes to support the response to COVID-
19. MBIE is leading this work and we are supporting them by engaging with public sector employers on
two issues:
1. A simplified risk assessment framework for employers to fol ow when deciding whether to require
vaccination for different types of work. We’ve asked agencies for feedback on the two options
developed by MBIE.
2. Government is considering whether additional work should be subject to vaccination mandates.
We’ve canvassed agencies on whether they have work that should be covered by a vaccination mandate,
and received a wide range of responses. We’ve shared the feedback on both issues with MBIE and wil
continue to contribute to the development of policy advice on these matters. We’re mindful of the need
for a consistent approach to these issues.
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
b) Guidance Update
We are now developing our guidance to support agencies to operate under the traffic light system. This
will likely integrate both the workforce and vaccination guidance and whether the current settings on
entitlements such as paid leave, extended sick leave, etc are appropriate with the shift in strategy to
learning to live with COVID.
We will be looking for your input on this in the next week or so and wil be consulting the PSA as wel .
In the meantime, we will continue to update the current guidance for any changes in Alert Levels. Check
our website regularly for the latest situation.
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
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Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 4 November 2021
3.30-4.000pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID-19
a) Vaccinations Update
Sarah advised that Te Kawa Mataaho are working to support agencies with the implementation of:
1. Government policy and legislation to operationalise the COVID Protection Framework
2. COVIC Vaccination Certificates
3. Vaccination mandates and risk assessments.
Dairne advised that Ministers have announced law changes on COVID-19. MBIE is leading this work
and we are supporting them by engaging with public sector employers on two issues:
1.
A simplified risk assessment framework for employers to fol ow when deciding whether to
require vaccination for different types of work. We’ve asked agencies for feedback on the two
options developed by MBIE.
2. Government is considering whether additional work should be subject to
vaccination
mandates. We’ve canvassed agencies on whether they have work that should be covered by a
vaccination mandate, and received a wide range of responses.
We’ve shared the feedback on both issues with MBIE and will continue to contribute to the
development of policy advice on these matters. We’re mindful of the need for a consistent approach
to these issues.
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
b) Guidance Update
We are now developing our guidance to support agencies to operate under the traffic light system
(COVID Protection Framework). This wil likely integrate both the workforce and vaccination
guidance and whether the current settings on entitlements such as paid leave, extended sick leave,
etc are appropriate with the shift in strategy to learning to live with COVID.
We would appreciate hearing any issues or questions you have about the COVID Protection
Framework that you would want the guidance to address please email
[email address] in the next week.
In the meantime we will continue to update the current guidance for any changes in Alert Levels.
Check our website regularly for the latest situation.
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Public Service Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 18 November 2021
12.30-1.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID-19
a) Vaccination Guidance
Dale and Sarah talked through how our Vaccination Guidance is developing, advising that this morning
there had been good engagement with Chief Executives. We wil be consulting with you on the draft
Guidance seeking advice on whether there are any major show stoppers. We will also be consulting with
PSA and CTU.
Karen Quigan advised that there will be three workshops to help agencies with vaccination and
workplaces. Further advice wil be provided shortly on these workshops. These workshops are being
developed with Government Health and Safety lead support.
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
Wider Group of Heads of HR (Conference Call)
Thursday 18 November 2021
3.30-4.00pm
Key Points and Actions
out of scope
2.
COVID-19
a) Vaccination Guidance
Dale and Sarah talked through how our Vaccination Guidance is developing. We will be issuing updated
guidance shortly. The guidance is designed to be supportive and support the public service to engage in
a consistent way with common workforce issues arising in the covid protection framework environment
and to progress their workplace assessments and develop their own vaccine policies.
Karen Quigan advised that there will be a workshop next week to help agencies with vaccination and
workplaces. Further advice will be provided shortly on these workshops. These workshops are being
developed with Government Health and Safety lead support.
Contact: 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
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Public Service Heads of HR
Thursday 16 December 2021
Actions and Key Points
out of scope
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10.
COVID-19 Protection Framework
Rapid Antigen Tests
Health has released information on Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) as a surveillance tool.
We are currently considering the system implications and we will review our guidance and update as
needed.
On 18 January we wil have the Programme Manager from the Ministry of Health available for a deep
dive to answer questions for agencies considering their use. We will also invite some organisations
currently using RAT to share their experience.
Positive COVID case at work
Health has issued guidance for workplaces that have a positive case of COVID-19. Please make sure the
relevant people in your agency understand the steps to take and have systems and processes in place
ahead of time, to manage accordingly.
We are open to sharing best practice, or issues, in the New Year if agencies find this a useful exercise.
Contact 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
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Wider Group of Heads of HR
Thursday 16 December 2021
Actions and Key Points
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
out of scope
8.
COVID-19 Protection Framework
Rapid Antigen Tests
Health has released information on Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) as a surveillance tool.
We are currently considering the system implications and we will review our guidance and update as
needed.
18th January we wil have the programme manager from the Ministry of Health available for a deep dive
to answer questions for agencies considering their use. We will also invite some organisations currently
using RAT to share their experience.
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Positive COVID case at work
Health has issued guidance for workplaces that have a positive case of COVID-19. Please make sure the
relevant people in your agency understand the steps to take and have systems and processes in place
ahead of time, to manage accordingly.
We are open to sharing best practice, or issues, in the New Year if agencies find this a useful exercise.
Contact 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
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Public Service Heads of HR
Deep Dive - Omicron
10.00am Tuesday 18 January 2022
Key Points
out of scope
Vaccination, including boosters, remains a key strategy to reduce the impact of Covid, so agencies
should support their workforces to get themselves and their families vaccinated. All other previously
utilised health measures (hand washing, masks, scanning in etc) remain very valuable and should
continue to be fol owed
out of scope
o
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out of scope
out of scope
6.
Questions?
The fol owing points were raised in HoHR deep dive sessions
• Redeployment opportunities for unvaccinated employees are likely to be limited, given the
widespread nature of agency vaccination policies.
• In respect of boosters, agencies may continue to use the My Vaccine Pass (which only requires
double vaccination at this point) unless covered by vaccine mandate which requires boosters.
• The definition of Essential services (covered by Schedule 2 of the Order) is under review.
• In respect of communications support for smal agencies, there are a range of materials
available on the Ministry of Health and Unite Against Covid websites which may help
out of scope
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Public Service Wider Group of Heads of HR
Deep Dive - Omicron
2.00pm Tuesday 18 January 2022
Key Points
out of scope
Vaccination, including boosters, remains a key strategy to reduce the impact of Covid, so agencies
should support their workforces to get themselves and their families vaccinated. All other previously
utilised health measures (hand washing, masks, scanning in etc) remain very valuable and should
continue to be fol owed
out of scope
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IN CONFIDENCE
out of scope
out of scope
6.
Questions?
The fol owing points were raised in HoHR deep dive sessions
• Redeployment opportunities for unvaccinated employees are likely to be limited, given the
widespread nature of agency vaccination policies.
• In respect of boosters, agencies may continue to use the My Vaccine Pass (which only requires
double vaccination at this point) unless covered by vaccine mandate which requires boosters.
• The definition of Essential services (covered by Schedule 2 of the Order) is under review.
• In respect of communications support for smal agencies, there are a range of materials
available on the Ministry of Health and Unite Against Covid websites which may help.
out of scope
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2
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Public Service Heads of HR
Thursday 20 January 2022
Actions and Key Points
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
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out of scope
4.
Check in with agencies on vaccine polices, preparation for Omicron, and The Hub
Agencies were reminded that if they needed support, information, or connections to implement
vaccine policies or to prepare for Omicron to contact the team via Karen Quigan in the first instance.
Contact 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
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Wider Group of Heads of HR
Thursday 20 January 2022
Actions and Key Points
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
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out of scope
4.
Check in with agencies on vaccine polices and preparation for Omicron
Agencies were reminded that if they needed support, information, or connections to implement vaccine
policies or to prepare for Omicron to contact the team via Karen Quigan in the first instance.
Contact9(2)(a) privacy
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Ngā mihi nui,
Peter
Peter Hughes (he/him)
Te Tumu Whakarae mō Te Kawa Mataaho | Public Service Commissioner, Head of Service
waea pūkoro: 9(2)(a) privacy
Background pattern
Description automatically generated
Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission
www.publicservice.govt.nz | www.govt.nz
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Public Service Heads of HR
Thursday 3 February 2022
Actions and Key Points
out of scope
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2.
COVID overview and Omicron preparedness
New Zealand remains in the early stages of the Omicron outbreak and cases wil continue to grow. We
need to continue to plan and prepare for a move to Phase two and three of the Omicron Plan. However,
we are currently in Phase one,
Omicron is contained which means we continue to be safe to manage
workplaces as normal (with good public health practises in place).
The Government announced this week a reduction in wait time between the second vaccine and
booster shot, from four months to three months. Certain roles in health and disability, education,
corrections, defence, Fire and Emergency New Zealand and Police must be vaccinated and have
received a booster vaccination against COVID-19 (see here). While each workforce has its own particular
set of risk factors, vaccination is a vital measure in common for reducing infection and transmission.
Government is encouraging preparedness for any future move to Phase two of the Omicron plan. This
plan includes starting to integrate rapid antigen tests (RAT) into a return to work programme for critical
business. We are expecting more information in the coming days on how the “test to return” wil work.
Contact 9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
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2
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Wider Group of Heads of HR
Thursday 3 February 2022
Actions and Key Points
out of scope
IN CONFIDENCE
IN CONFIDENCE
2.
COVID overview and Omicron preparedness
New Zealand remains in the early stages of the Omicron outbreak and cases wil continue to grow. We
need to continue to plan and prepare for a move to Phase two and three of the Omicron Plan. However,
we are currently in Phase one,
Omicron is contained which means we continue to be safe to manage
workplaces as normal (with good public health practises in place).
The Government announced this week a reduction in wait time between the second vaccine and
booster shot, from four months to three months. Certain roles in health and disability, education,
corrections, defence, Fire and Emergency New Zealand and Police must be vaccinated and have
received a booster vaccination against COVID-19 (see here). While each workforce has its own particular
set of risk factors, vaccination is a vital measure in common for reducing infection and transmission.
Government is encouraging preparedness for any future move to Phase two of the Omicron plan. This
plan includes starting to integrate rapid antigen tests (RAT) into a return to work programme for critical
business. We are expecting more information in the coming days on how the “test to return” wil work.
Contact9(2)(a) privacy
out of scope
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