Public Sector Employment

Mr SPEIRS (Bright) (14:21): My question is to the Minister for the Public Sector. Does the dismissal of 11 senior executives in the Department of the Premier and Cabinet meet the public sector's values as developed by Change@South Australia, in particular the value of respect which is described on the Office for the Public Sector website as:

Applying empathetic people management skills to bring out the best in employees, and making their wellbeing a priority.

The Hon. S.E. CLOSE (Port Adelaide—Minister for Education and Child Development, Minister for the Public Sector) (14:21): I do find it slightly baffling to be asked that question by the party that seems to want us to shrink the public sector at a rapid rate. However—

Members interjecting:

The Hon. S.E. CLOSE: I can hardly hear myself think. I suppose the way that the question was asked was really intended to imply that somehow shrinking executives is not respectful and maybe the implication is that there is a view that we should have fewer at the lower levels instead of fewer at the higher levels. I am not sure what sits behind the thinking, but the government is committed not only to meeting its budget targets but also to do so in a way that does not disadvantage front-line staff—

Ms Chapman interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The deputy leader is warned for the second and final time.

The Hon. S.E. CLOSE: —and front-line services and, therefore, has very properly looked to those who are on contract and on very high payments to manage their budgets.

Mr Knoll interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The member for Schubert is warned.