Paid Parental Leave is Bad News for Women

Wednesday 7 Nov 2001 Penny Webster Press Releases -- Other

Nobody will end up winning from today's paid parental leave announcement, ACT Women's Affairs Spokesman MP Penny Webster said.

"New Zealand is a nation of small businesses. Over a quarter of a million businesses have less than five employees. Those businesses will find it extremely difficult to replace women with temporary staff - especially in industries that require trained staff.

"Today's announcement is not good news for women, in spite of it being touted as such. Businesses are going to be reluctant to employ any young women at all.

"Paid parental leave eliminates freedom and choice. Having a baby is a serious decision, not one that should be taken lightly.

"This Government is penalising families and rewarding individuals.

"Paid parental leave should be a matter for individual employers and employees. It should not be forced upon people. Having a child is a choice which should not be subsidised by the rest of New Zealand," ACT MP Penny Webster said.

ENDS

For more information visit ACT online at http://www.act.org.nz or contact the ACT Parliamentary Office at act@parliament.govt.nz.

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