The Government has launched SafetyNet Critical Communications, a new independent Crown company replacing Next Generation Critical Communications.
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell welcomed the launch. SafetyNet has an expanded mandate compared to its predecessor to strengthen New Zealand's emergency preparedness and response capability.
SafetyNet will coordinate the creation of a unified, secure communications platform built to emergency standards for the public safety sector. The company will also make Public Safety Network Cellular Services available to organisations working in daily safety operations and emergency response.
Rob Fyfe has been appointed as Chair of the SafetyNet Board, with Deborah Battel, Glen Sowry, Greg Lowe and TJ Kennedy joining as board members. Steve Ferguson has been appointed CEO.
The board will work with an expert panel comprising the chief executives of Hato Hone St John, New Zealand Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand and Wellington Free Ambulance.
SafetyNet will oversee development, delivery and maintenance of communications infrastructure and services through pooled provision of shared emergency systems. The company operates on a model of constructing shared emergency infrastructure for repeated use across potentially hundreds of public safety sector organisations.