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Below is an email from the Chief Executive of CSIRO to staff...
"Dear colleagues,
Over recent days there has been debate about CSIRO's public comment policy. As a publically funded research agency and Statutory Authority of Government our Charter remains unchanged, the principles of which include:
* our staff are actively encouraged to debate publicly the latest science and its implications, including analysis of policy options
* we do not debate publicly the merits or otherwise of specific government or opposition policies
The Charter was developed after wide consultation with staff and the CPSU Staff Association and endorsed by the Minister and Chairman of the CSIRO Board.
All CSIRO publications are reviewed for science quality and to make sure the meet our obligations under our Charter – there are no exceptions to this principle.
In the context of discussing the policy implications of our science we cannot be a trusted advisor government, industry the community and people of Australia and at the same time publicly advocate or criticise a particular policy position of government or opposition. To maintain our independence and the integrity of our science we must not cross the line into political debate.
However it is recognised that this line can be blurred at times and that is why I encourage you to discuss these issues openly with your peers and line managers who I entrust to maintain CSIRO’s high standards. We must ensure that we our science continues to contribute to informed debate on the major challenges facing Australia and humankind.
We are an organisation with goals and values that go beyond our science. We know we will be successful when we remain a trusted advisor to the Australian people.
Regards
Megan
Dr Megan Clark
Chief Executive, CSIRO"
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