[Media Release - OPSC] Reappointment of Secretary of Transport

Thursday, 17 February 2022

Mr John Hosking has been re-appointed as the Secretary for the Ministry of Transport (MoT) for a second 3-year term. Hosking has over 30 years’ experience working in various senior management roles with a broad range of management and leadership skills, inspiring others to embrace continuous improvements in the delivery of public goods and services.

Hosking began his career with the Cook Islands Police rising to the rank of Inspector and served as Commander in the National Command, Control and Coordination Centre (NCCCC), prior to NCCCC was the Inspector for the Planning, Development and Training Division, as well as for General Policing and Traffic Division. Hosking joined the MoT as the Aviation (Safety & Security) Oversight Manager in 2016, before being appointed in 2018 as Secretary for the Ministry of Transport.

Heads of Ministries (HoMs) are employed under 3-year term contracts. Pursuant to the Public Service Amendment Act 2009, a HoM's employment may 'roll-over' into a second three year term contract with the approval of Cabinet, provided that performance criteria has been met during the HoM's first term.

During his first term as Secretary, Hosking, along with the team at Transport took a more proactive role in the certification of the aviation sector and conducting vessel inspections to ensure a more compliant Maritime sector. They also strengthened support for domestic and small-motorised vessels and introduced the Boatmaster Course to the Pa Enua. Strengthening their relationship with their customers has been enhanced exponentially.

For his second term, Hosking will focus on safety and security regulatory oversight of Aviation, Maritime, Land transport, Dangerous Goods and Hazardous materials, and the Cook Islands Meteorological Services. Due to COVID-19, the Ministry will continue to promote safety and security, safety management systems in the aviation and maritime sector, and strengthen compliance of domestic, chartered and small-motorised vessels. They also intend to visit the Pa Enua with assistance from the Pacific Maritime Safety Programme funded by New Zealand Aid Programme.

The Public Service Commissioner Carl Hunter, looks forward to working closely with Hosking over the next three years. Hunter commented that he has every confidence in Hosking’s ability to perform his duties to the highest of standards and states that Hosking’ is always willing to lead from the front whilst working closely with his team at the Ministry of Transport in order to deliver services in a cost-effective manner.

ENDS

Enquiries regarding this media release can be directed to Teresa Tura, Corporate Services Manager, at Teresa.tura@cookislands.gov.ck or call 29 421 during Office hours.