Manawatu employers tackle MBIE over mediation outsourcing

Manawatu employers tackle MBIE over mediation outsourcing

Source: PSA

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Businesses in Palmerston North are taking on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment - and the Public Service Association welcomes their direct action.

Staff at MBIE’s mediation service have been told their office will be closed and their work will be taken on by a panel of local contractors.

Local employers say the current set-up provides quick, accessible and professional services, and an 85 percent resolution rate proves it’s a benefit to workers and businesses.

They’re contacting the Workplace Relations minister Michael Woodhouse and MBIE to urge them not to undermine a system that’s delivering results.

Unions will picket the MBIE office in Palmerston North on Tuesday 22 December.

Palmerston North City Council, Massey University, Business Central and community groups have also indicated they’ll make submissions against the proposed changes.

"The PSA supports this direct action campaign," says Glenn Barclay, PSA National Secretary.

"Employers tell us contracting out these services won’t deliver better results, and it’s unlikely to cut costs substantially.

"MBIE and the Minister need to listen to local businesses because they know what’s working in their communities.

"And in this case, businesses are telling them the only winners from their proposed changes will be lawyers."

ENDS

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