I find the competence of government employees quite acceptable and even at times commendable given my quality of life. But then I also understand how the rest of the world has to get by which makes me appreciate what I'm fortunate enough to have.

The weird thing I've noticed is that some people in my country will express your sentiment, but then turn around and tell you they live in the best country in the world and would be offended were anyone to say otherwise.

I guess they don't see the connection between the government workers and that quality of life.

As someone who has worked in government I take offence to this. There are plenty of very qualified people in government who do want to help make the country a better place.

They are often just dealing with out of date processes that are mandated by law and which limit their ability to be innovative.