Work and Income faced 1,700-plus lockdowns as MSD proposes cutting guards

MSD data released under the Official Information Act shows Work and Income staff faced more than 1,700 lockdowns over five years. The ministry proposes cutting 22 guard positions across regional offices, on top of 20 jobs reduced in March. MSD says $80 million in security upgrades makes centres safe. The PSA's Fleur Fitzsimons says incidents are underreported and cuts should be shelved.