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22 May 2013

PSA calls on all councils to follow Hamilton’s Living Wage lead

The Public Service Association is calling on councils around the country to follow Hamilton’s lead and adopt the Living Wage.

The PSA is the largest union in local government and is welcoming news that the Hamilton City Council has agreed to pay a living wage of $18.40 an hour to all staff.

“The Council should be applauded for what is a very meaningful step in trying to lift wages and improve people’s standard of living,” says PSA National Secretary Brenda Pilott.

“A living wage will make a big difference to all those who work hard to professionally deliver services, yet earn minimum wages.”

Brenda Pilott says “we would also encourage the Council to lead the way in terms of fostering a Living Wage culture throughout all its operations and services into the future. That means writing it into all agreements for contracted out services.”

“Providing a living wage is about valuing staff and being a fair employer. Hamilton City Council has blazed the trail on the issue, and other councils now need to step up and do the same.”

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