Scott Simpson Coromandel MP

The start of a new year is the traditional time to assess where we are at and set goals and targets for the next 12 months or so. Some of us may be even be determined enough to make New Year's resolutions.

It's a similar process in Government, as Parliament resumes with fresh energy and ready to launch into 2014.

So what are the priorities and what can the people of Katikati and the rest of the Western Bay expect? For most of us, our interactions with Government come through the public service. So a key area of focus will be on National's Better Public Services programme, which is transforming how we fund and deliver those vital things that all New Zealanders need – health, security, education and welfare.

We've set specific targets that we expect our public service to achieve across the following five result areas:

•Reducing long-term welfare dependence

•Supporting vulnerable children

•Boosting skills and employment

•Reducing crime

•Improving interaction with Government

The targets we've set recognise the demand for improvements in addressing complex, long-term issues that affect New Zealanders. We've deliberately set the bar high and we are making great headway.

In the year to June 2013, the number of long-term beneficiaries dropped from 78,154 to 74,559. Our aim is to see that figure hit 55,000 by 2017.

As at September 2013, the participation rate of children in early childhood education was up to 95.8 per cent – an increase of 1640 than at the same time in 2012. We will be looking for a further rise this year, as we work towards having 98 per cent in quality early childhood education by 2016.

As at September 2013, 91 per cent of eight month old babies were fully immunised – exceeding the June 2014 target of 90 per cent.

As a result of our commitment to getting more police on the frontline, by June 2013, the crime rate had dropped by 12 per cent, the violent crime rate had dropped by 8 per cent; and the youth crime rate had dropped by 19 per cent since June 2011.

These are just a few examples of how the reforms are having a real impact on people's lives. But there are dozens more measurable targets where members of the public can clearly see the standards we have set and, crucially, the progress we are making.

With this in mind, I would like to acknowledge all of those who work in the public service in the electorate, who have been in the fore of delivering these great results.