DoL investigation finds no evidence of conspiracy to lie or deceive

The Secretary of Labour, Dr James Buwalda, has completed an investigation into allegations about the way the Department of Labour (DoL) managed official information in relation to the Zaoui case, and has found no evidence of a conspiracy amongst
officials to lie or deceive.

James Buwalda joined the DoL, which is responsible for the New Zealand Immigration
Service, on July 25. On July the 30th he initiated an investigation to determine the facts surrounding this case.

“Being new to this position I approached the investigation without any pre-conceived ideas and I was determined that an objective and thorough investigation be carried out. My investigation found no evidence of a conspiracy to lie or deceive. However it did highlight a number of deficiencies with management practices and processes in dealing with official information.

“I am pleased that the integrity of the New Zealand Immigration Service has been upheld through this investigation. But the issues it has raised are serious and I have taken immediate action to remedy them. I will not tolerate unprofessional behaviour that risks the Department’s reputation and undermines the extent to which it deserves and holds the respect of citizens. I am reinforcing management accountabilities and responsibilities to ensure that the way we deal with OIA requests and queries from the media is of the highest standard.

“As a result of the investigation I can also confirm that disciplinary procedures have been initiated. However I cannot comment further to ensure fair process”, said Dr Buwalda.

For further information please call:
Jacqueline Owen (04) 915 4338
025 780 697

Editor’s notes

• James Buwalda was formerly the Chief Executive of the Ministry of Research,Science and Technology
• The New Zealand Immigration Service is a Service of the DoL
• The Zaoui case relates to the management of official information regarding the arrival, detention and processing of Mr Ahmed Zaoui - an Algerian who has now been granted refugee status in New Zealand - and allegations of a conspiracy by DoL staff to lie, and deceive the Ombudsman
• Copies of the report are available on the DoL website www.dol.govt.nz