7555 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety

7555 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety: What policies and procedures, if any, did Worksafe have in place to manage any actual or perceived conflict of interest between Meredith Connell and Steve Haszard given that he was the managing partner of Meredith Connell prior to his appointment as Chief Executive Officer of Worksafe, and as set out in WPQ 5440 / 24 Worksafe was a major client of Meredith Connell?

Hon Brooke van Velden: I am advised that WorkSafe New Zealand has a conflict-of-interest plan to manage the perceived conflict of interest between Meredith Connell and Steve Haszard. This was approved by WorkSafe’s Board Chair, Jennifer Kerr, and agreed prior to Mr Haszard commencing his role with WorkSafe. WorkSafe followed its standard conflict of interest policy and procedures, as well as adding additional controls due to the seniority of Mr Haszard’s role as Chief Executive.