New Zealand’s National Library and Archives will cut 45 jobs as part of a restructuring programme that will reduce its workforce by 11.3%, with the new organisational structure taking effect on 30 November.
According to RNZ, the cuts were proposed in September and have now been confirmed following a staff meeting.
The restructuring will reduce the combined workforce from 396.7 to 351.8 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions.
Restructuring to reduce duplication
The changes are being led by National Librarian Te Pouhuaki Rachel Esson and Chief Archivist Poumanaaki Anahera Morehu, with the stated aim of reducing duplication and strengthening collaboration between the two institutions.
Of the 44.9 FTE positions being removed, 38.2 are vacant roles.
The final reduction is slightly smaller than the 46.9 FTE cuts proposed in September.
Esson said, "We need to ensure Archives New Zealand and the National Library can continue to protect, preserve and provide access to New Zealand's documentary heritage and collections.”
"These changes position us to continue delivering our services within available resources. While some services may be delivered differently, New Zealanders will continue to have access to the services and collections they rely on,” Esson added.
Union raises concerns over workforce impact
The Public Service Association (PSA) criticised the decision, arguing that the cuts had proceeded despite opposition from historians, researchers, choirs, orchestras and staff.
National secretary Fleur Fitzsimons said the decision disregarded concerns raised by communities that rely on the institutions.
"Historians, researchers, choirs, orchestras and many others spoke out loudly and strongly against these cuts and yet they've been ignored. It's a slap in the face for staff and the many communities they serve," Fitzsimons said.
She also questioned the timing of the decision, describing it as "completely inappropriate" for such significant changes to be made close to an election.
"Preserving our precious history is not a nice to have, it's critical. Yet this institution is being deliberately downgraded on the back of the Government's spending cuts with little thought to the future. It leaves an already stretched and demoralised workforce expected to shoulder a rising burden."
The confirmed reduction will leave the combined workforce smaller than it was two years ago, according to the union. The new structure is scheduled to come into effect on 30 November.