Low-paid Workers to Benefit from Budget Surplus

Thursday, 18 December 2003, 12:44 am
Press Release: New Zealand Council of Trade Unions

Low-paid Workers to Benefit from Budget Surplus

The Budget Policy Statement announced today signals help for workers and families who are struggling to make ends meet on low incomes, says Council of Trade Unions secretary Carol Beaumont.

“The CTU has been calling for some time for Budget surpluses to be directed towards people on low incomes,” said Carol Beaumont. “So we welcome today’s announcement of a package to assist low-paid workers, low income families and more funding for early childhood education.”

Unions were concerned, however, that some beneficiaries appeared to miss out on any significant increases in support.

“The CTU has also been concerned that low-income families are being priced out of home ownership,” Carol Beaumont said. “So it’s good that the BPS signals that the Budget will make housing more affordable for low-income families and single adults.

“Other significant features in the BPS include support for state sector capacity, and ongoing expenditure on growth and innovation initiatives,” she said.

“It is good that the BPS also acknowledges the financial implications of possible improvements in paid parental leave, health sector wage negotiations and pay and employment equity taskforce recommendations.”

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New Zealand Council of Trade Unions

Te Kauae Kaimahi

The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi brings together over 350,000 New Zealand union members in 40 affiliated unions. We are the united voice for working people and their families in New Zealand.

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