GDC staff safety at risk

Gisborne District Council chambers. File picture by Liam Clayton

Police have been called in to keep Gisborne District Council staff safe, after a rise in abuse from the public.

Last week, a report to the council noted an increase in staff abuse in the first three months of 2023, “representing 39 percent of the total 12-month reports”.

“This trend has worsened following the cyclones we have faced this year,” the report said.

“While we understand our communities are facing uncertainty and loss, the increase and level of abuse to staff is not acceptable.

“The number of events has not only increased, but the level of abuse has intensified requiring police intervention. As a result, we have initiated regular meetings with the police to ensure the ability to share intelligence and trends.

“Online training has been deployed to all public-facing staff as part of an increased staff support programme. A public media campaign is also in train.”

GDC health and safety manager David Wilkinson said staff had seen a consistent increase in the number and levels of abuse and unacceptable behaviour over several years, more so in 2023.

“A number of teams who in the past were not subject to abuse are now experiencing it.

“These include our Mayor, councillors and staff from customer services to finance, recreation/parks and pool teams — all are reporting poor behaviour.

“In addition to increased events, the level of abuse requiring police intervention is also a worrying trend.

“All abuse of council staff is taken seriously. We understand it’s a problem across all councils and other workplaces.

“It’s important to remember that our staff are people who work for our community.

“Staff are being supported with proactive training and reactively by being offered EAP (Employee assistance programme support).”

Tairāwhiti Area Commander, Inspector Sam Aberahama said Tairāwhiti Police already enjoyed a close working relationship with the Gisborne District Council, with regular meetings to share information and support each other.

“Following the cyclone, council staff have been working tirelessly across our community helping with the recovery.

“We acknowledge that during this period, tensions may be heightened. However, abusing local authority staff who are going about their jobs to help others as best they can is never acceptable.

“We urge anyone who witnesses illegal behaviour or is concerned for their safety or that of anyone else to contact police on 111 at the time.”