OUTA flags abuse risks and lack of consequences for non-compliance.

Our team thoroughly reviewed the proposed Public Administration Management Regulations (PAMR) for the Central Register, which aims to create a register for public service employees dismissed for misconduct or officials who resigned during disciplinary action.

We made a formal submission to the Department of Public Service and Administration, calling for more substantial reforms while highlighting several key concerns:

• Weak Consequence Management: 

OUTA is concerned that the regulations lack penalties for public service leaders who fail to consult the register before appointments, undermining its effectiveness. OUTA recommends clear sanctions for non-compliance.

• Public Access: 

OUTA urges for the register to be publicly accessible via the Department’s website to promote transparency, while respecting privacy laws.

• Safeguards Against Malicious Listings:
OUTA stresses the need for a formal appeal process to protect against the wrongful listing of whistleblowers or those exposing misconduct.

“While we support the register, we must stress the need for enforceable measures to ensure compliance and prevent misuse,” says Advocate Stefanie Fick, OUTA’s Executive Director.

OUTA is dedicated to advancing transparency, good governance, and accountability in the public service, and we view these reforms as a crucial step toward strengthening public governance.

OUTA’s submission is here.

The draft Public Administration Management Regulations for the Central Register is here.