Working Together for a Better Public Sector

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

15 December 2025

Working Together for a Better Public Sector

Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 3 December 2025   Cross-agency collaboration and workforce development were highlighted at the recent Public Sector Orientation.  The importance of working together across Government Agencies was a key theme to emerge from the recent Public Sector Orientation, where new and existing public servants were introduced to how the Cook Islands Public Sector operates as one connected system.

A central focus of the orientation was understanding the machinery of government, which comprises four central Agencies – the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Ministry of Finance and Economic Management (MFEM), the Office of the Public Service Commissioner (OPSC), and the Crown Law Office (CLO) – each supporting the core functions of Government.

While each Agency has a distinct role, together they strengthen leadership, financial oversight, legal integrity, and public service administration. This collaboration supports Cabinet and Ministers to make informed and timely decisions, ensures financial stability, upholds lawful decision‑making, and maintains the standards of the Cook Islands Public Service.

Supporting quality Cabinet decision‑making

Participants at the Orientation were made aware of how cross‑Agency collaboration contributes to the quality of advice provided to Cabinet. When Agencies work together effectively, Cabinet papers are more likely to be:

·       aligned with Government policy

·       legally and fiscally compliant

·       clear, complete, and well‑structured

·       informed by all affected Ministries

·       focused on principles and policy rather than administrative detail; and

·       ready to support sound Cabinet decision‑making

This shared approach reduces duplication, strengthens advice, and supports better outcomes for Ministers and the wider community.

Working as One Public Sector

Another key concept reinforced during the Orientation was “Working as One”. This reflects the understanding that all Agencies operate within a single Public Sector system, and that alignment is critical to achieving quality outcomes.

The National Vision in the National Sustainable Development Agenda 2020+ sets the direction for the country. The Public Sector vision and values, guide how we operate collectively as one workforce. Individual Agencies then give effect to these through their own visions, values, and functions.

The quality of public service outcomes depends on how well Agencies understand their role within this system and how effectively they collaborate with others.

Building a capable and values‑based workforce

As part of workforce development discussions, participants were encouraged to:

·       understand the history that shapes our governance and Public Service structure

·       recognise the Public Service’s role in implementing policy and delivering services

·       uphold the core values of honesty, accountability, transparency, and respect

·       align their work with national goals, including the NSDA 2020+

Each public servant plays an important role in supporting the Cook Islands’ growth, stability, and good governance.

Looking ahead

The Public Sector Orientation reinforced that collaboration across Agencies is essential to a strong, trusted, and future‑ready Public Service. By working as one system and staying aligned with national priorities, the Public Service is better positioned to meet current challenges and support the long‑term aspirations of the Cook Islands.

Looking ahead to 2026, the Public Sector Orientation will be held on Thursday, 12 February; Wednesday, 6 May; Friday, 14 August; and Wednesday, 18 November. Employee registrations can be made by emailing opschr@cookislands.gov.ck.