Security Cuts Spark Safety Debate | Auckland News

The Ministry of Social Development plans to slash 22 security guard roles across regional Work and Income offices, reducing staff from three to two per site — despite unions and guards warning it’s dangerously risky. Citing $80 million in recent security upgrades and a drop in severe incidents, the Ministry says safety is still top priority. But with over 14,000 security events and 1,700 lockdowns in five years — including the tragic 2014 Ashburton murders — critics argue two guards can’t handle emergencies. As living costs soar and public pressure mounts, unions fear this move is premature. The Ministry insists March pilot cuts went smoothly and all sites will retain at least two guards — feedback on the plan is due by August 12. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/60322891d4b412bc