Whānau Ora Regional Leadership Groups Appointments

What process was used to appoint members to Regional Leadership Groups (RLGs)?

An open nomination process for community members of Regional Leadership Groups was undertaken from 10-23 June 2010; and appointees were announced by the Minster Responsible for Whānau Ora, Hon Tariana Turia.

Initial assessment of all applications included reference checks, preliminary conflict of interest declarations and consent to Ministry of Justice vetting. A review of shortlisted applicants was carried out by the Governance Group to check any conflicts of interest and ensure a balance of skills, knowledge and experience within each group.

The Governance Group selected Regional Leadership Group individuals based on the following criteria:

1. are well known in the community
2. have a sufficient mix of skills and experience in health, economic and cultural
3. sectors; working with whānau collectives and in whānau development at a
4. community level;
5. have knowledge of issues facing whānau; understanding of local service
6. provision; advocating for and leading change within communities;
7. have proven relationship management skills; and possess knowledge of other
8. initiatives occurring within the region that may impact on or have synergies with Whānau Ora service provision.

How were potential conflicts of interest managed?

Shortlisted applicants were asked to confirm they were not involved in governance or management of providers submitting proposals to the EOI process; or involved in funding or contract management for providers eligible to receive Whānau Ora funding. Shortlisted applicants were also asked to confirm their agreement to comply with current and any future Conflict of Interest provisions in the Regional Leadership Group Terms of Reference. The Governance Group will monitor ongoing adherence to these provisions and will review these as required.

How were the chairs of each RLG selected?

The Governance Group nominated chairpersons for each RLG based on leadership skills and governance experience, as evidenced in their applications.

Why have some RLGs got more community members than others and is co-opting members possible?

Some RLGS have more members than others as a result of the number of nominees who applied and those who subsequently declared a conflict of interest and/or withdrew from the process. Co-opting members to Regional Leadership Groups may be considered to boost additional skills, Pacific representation, and provide geographical representation in regions such as Te Wai Pounamu. Pacific representation will be considered in regions where there is a significant Pacific population. This will be done with the guidance and advice of the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs.

What fees do RLG members receive?

Members are remunerated as per guidelines issued by the State Services Commission. Chairs are paid a daily rate of $360 and community member fees paid at a daily rate of $240. These fees are mid-range and are commensurate with the Ministry of Social Development’s Community Response Fund panels.

What is the term of appointment for RLG members?

Appointments to RLGs are for the full three-year term from 16 July 2010 to 30 June 2013.

Last modified: 19/10/2010