5438 (2026). Francisco Hernandez to the Minister for Social Development and Employment

5438 (2026). Francisco Hernandez to the Minister for Social Development and Employment: How many other candidates, if any, were considered for the role of Chair of the New Zealand Artificial Limb Service and how many, if any, were interviewed?

Hon Louise Upston: The Ministry of Social Development (the Ministry) has advised me that in 2024, an appointment process was undertaken for five member roles on the New Zealand Artificial Limb Service (NZALS). As one of the expiring members also held the role of Chair, the Chair role was also considered as part of the appointment round. The process followed the Crown Entities Act 2004 and the Artificial Limb Service Act 2018 (the ALS Act) requirements. The Public Service Commission’s Board Appointments and Governance guidelines were applied throughout the process. In summary, the process comprised writing to the nominating bodies specified in the ALS Act, review of members for potential appointment as Chair, due diligence checks, and consideration by the Cabinet Appointments and Honours Committee. Members are nominated by bodies specified in the ALS Act therefore no advertising was undertaken. The Chair is appointed from the NZALS membership. All six members were therefore considered. No members were interviewed. The Chair is appointed from the NZALS membership. The outgoing Chair provided advice. A selection panel was not set up. This is also my response to WPQ’s 5437, 5439 & 5436