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Regional CD organisation step closer
Friday, 6 November 2009Southland's four councils are one step closer to one shared Civil Defence organisation for the region after agreement this week by Southland's political leaders, Invercargill Mayor and Civil Defence Emergency Management Group Chairman Tim Shadbolt said today. In a joint statement, the political leaders of the region's four councils explained the merits of the proposal. Mr Shadbolt said one shared Civil Defence organisation would lead to greater efficiencies, better use of resources and more services than are currently provided by the four councils acting individually.
Invercargill City Council, Gore District Council, Southland District Council and Environment Southland, in June this year, jointly commissioned a Civil Defence Review as part of the combined council group that looks at sharing services between councils.
The review, conducted by strategic consultant Janette Malcolm, concluded that one shared Civil Defence organisation should be formed. The organisation will be located at Environment Southland and will be jointly controlled by all four participating councils.
Mr Shadbolt said one shared Civil Defence organisation would benefit the province in the following ways:
- Civil Defence would be better able to cope in an emergency;
- The ability to have an integrated plan for the region.
- Increased backup for key roles;
- Higher specialisation of staff;
- Less duplication of resources;
- Improved financial accountability; and
- Increased transparency and performance accountability.
"The proposal will go to all four councils for their individual approval before Christmas and it is hoped that the new organisation will be up and running before 1 April 2010," Mr Shadbolt said.
Southland District Mayor Frana Cardno said: "I am delighted - Southland councils have proven again how we can work together and achieve the best result for Southlanders, as well as lead the way for the rest of New Zealand."
Environment Southland Chairman Stuart Collie said the restructured joint Civil Defence organisation was the only logical way to proceed. "Emergency management has to be done on a region-wide basis to be able to provide the level of coordination necessary to mount an effective response."
Gore Mayor Tracy Hicks said: "It is a concept that makes sense. The time is right and it is good to see the Southland authorities working together."
