MSD boss defends linking staff performance with cutting emergency housing
The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) in New Zealand is defending its use of performance targets that link staff success to reducing emergency housing numbers. Critics argue this creates a perverse incentive to deny vulnerable people necessary support, while the ministry maintains it is simply executing government policy.
Why it matters
The policy reflects a significant shift in government welfare strategy, raising ethical questions about the balance between administrative efficiency and social welfare obligations.
MSD's chief executive Debbie Power. Photo / Samuel Rillstone, RNZ
The article presents both the government's policy justification and the criticism from advocacy groups like the Auckland City Mission.
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