Jo Goodhew MP
National Party Associate Health Spokeswoman
(Aged Care)

29 May 2007

Compulsory unionism by stealth

The Labour Government is pushing compulsory unionism on aged care workers at the expense of older New Zealanders, says National’s Associate health spokeswoman, Jo Goodhew.

She is commenting on DHBs demanding aged care employers to promote collective bargaining agreements with their staff.

"This is compulsory unionism by stealth. Surely, these workers deserve the freedom to decide if they are union members or not. They should be entitled to negotiate for themselves as individuals if they want.

"It is unfair that workers will only get a pay rise if they are in a union. This looks like more cynical payback for the union’s loyal support of Labour.

“Aged care workers are caring for the some of the most vulnerable people in our communities and Labour’s plan to force them into unions will only affect one group – the elderly.

“It’s very disappointing that the Government has behaved so arrogantly.”

ENDS

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