The N.Z. Times SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 1908. CIVIL SERVICE CLASSIFICATION

New Zealand Times, Volume XXX, Issue 6492, 11 April 1908, Page 8

The N.Z. Times

SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 1908. CIVIL SERVICE CLASSIFICATION

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In another column will he found an interesting collection of . extracts from the Reports of the Public Service Commissioners for the Commonwealth of Australia and the premier State therein (New South Wales). They contain very valuable hints and suggestions, which should be of great service when the New Zealand Civil Service is similarly r classified. The modern system of classification appears to consist of three cardinal features:—First, promotion entirely by meant, superseding the old-time theory of promotion by seni'ority; secondly, departmental examinations by which officers are enabled to show their capabilities; and, thirdly, the encouragement of officers to educate themselves beyond the bare routine necessary for the requirements of the first position they hold in the service. By securing the most qualified and efficient persona for the service of the State, it has been demonstrated that a considerable saving in the total salaries payable may he effected, although in numerous instances the individual salaries have been raised. This is due to the fact that one zealous and capable officer can perform duties which, under the old system, are undertaken by two or more comparatively inefficient or indifferent officials. It will be seen that the consistent aim of the Civil Service Commissioners is to discover ‘‘ brains ” among the rank and file of the service, and, when discovered, to suitably reward the fortunate possessors by affording them early opportunities of advancing the interests of the State in the manner most fitted for doing so. The obligation is not one-sided, as the business of the Government is materially assisted by the infusion of young, energetic and able men into the responsible positions, whilst the service generally is distinctly improved by increased chances of promotion at an early ago to hard-working officers, and a man is judged by the work he can do, and not by the mere length of time ho has managed to keep employed by the department to which he belongs. Such is the system now adopted by all largo private concerns, and every progressive Government has recognised the value of the system in its own Public Service. This is the case all over Australia, and surely New Zealand will keep abreast of the times in. this respect.