unitex@rubbs.fidonet.org (unitex) (09/19/89)
Let me now turn to conditions of service which, as we all know,
have deteriorated to the point where the United Nations is no
longer fully competitive in attracting personnel of the highest
calibre.
It is encouraging that the International Civil Service Commission
has tackled the comprehensive review of all conditions of
service with such seriousness and sense of purpose. I am
gratified that staff representatives participated in this
important review. It is my sincere hope that it will go a long
way towards rectifying some of the anomalies that have developed
in this area. This means, among other things, that the General
Assembly will now have the opportunity to review the salary
structure, the post adjustment and the various allowances of
staff members in the Professional category.
I am also pleased to report to you that the International Civil
Service Commission has begun its 1989 salary survey for the
General Service staff. This ought to ensure that the legitimate
needs and interests of all categories of staff will now be
reviewed. You have all contributed your utmost to enable the
Organization to carry out its growing and complex tasks.
Here, I should like to stress, in particular, my continued
commitment to increasing the representation of women in the
Secretariat and to ensuring that there are more women in
policy-making positions.
The staff has done its best and is continuing to do so. For my
part, I will not fail to make this clear to the General Assembly
and stress that better conditions of service are essential if
the Organization is to attract and retain competent staff in the
future. I trust that Governments will demonstrate their renewed
confidence in the United Nations by giving favourable
consideration to the recommendations of the International Civil
Service Commission.
It will also be essential for Member States to make every effort
to meet their financial obligations. It is high time that the
United Nations should be able to leave its financial worries
behind. As long as this problem is not addressed and
effectively resolved, the best efforts of the staff will remain
at risk.
During the past year, we have mounted four new peace-keeping
operations, compared with 13 operations over the previous 40
years. Others are in the planning stage. I have been greatly
impressed and encouraged by the way in which staff members have
volunteered for service in overseas missions. In my travels, I
have been deeply moved to see United Nations staff from so many
countries serving together with unfailing devotion under the
United Nations flag.
We can be justifiably proud of our accomplishments. Yet, as we
look ahead, we must not be complacent. The United Nations still
faces vast problems which will require our continued courage,
creativity and commitment. I am confident that given the
necessary support we will respond fully to the challenges ahead.
Thank you again and my best wishes to each of you on this Staff
Day.
* Origin: UNITEX --> Toward a United Species (1:107/501)
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Patt Haring | United Nations | FAX: 212-787-1726
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