What is most worrisome about the recent data-handling problems at the Ministry of Health is that it appears the minister and her deputy suspended and fired individuals for making a mistake. Not only do these drastic personnel decisions appear to lack administrative fairness, but they also create a work climate that stifles engagement, decision-making and innovation.
The minister has inadvertently created a toxic atmosphere that is bound to have a negative impact on work productivity throughout the ministry. When an employee makes a mistake, it should be met with coaching and mentoring. Resorting to punishment should only occur when all other reasonable steps have failed.
Rey Carr
Victoria
