Kate Wilkinson MP
National Party Industrial Relations Spokeswoman

24 July 2008

Predictable fear campaign by Labour’s mates

National Party Industrial Relations spokeswoman Kate Wilkinson says she is disappointed by the hysterical response from a couple of Labour’s biggest cheerleaders over National’s balanced industrial relations policy.

“It’s election year, and we’d expect Helen Kelly and Andrew Little to be campaigning for Labour, but it’s a real shame they’re letting their own political bias cloud their better judgment.

“Ms Kelly and Mr Little, both deeply involved in Labour Party politics, have attacked National’s industrial relations policy with a series of half truths and innuendos.

“I fully accept that these union reps are working alongside Labour on Helen Clark’s re-election strategy, but the failure to engage in an adult debate will disappoint many of their members.”

Ms Wilkinson says the pair have trotted out a string of tired and unsubstantiated Labour Party slogans.

“There is no threat to worker rights, collective bargaining will continue, there is no attack on entitlements, there is no plan to cut holidays, and there is no plan to privatise ACC. It’s the same tired old hysterical rubbish we’ve heard from Labour all week.”

Ms Wilkinson says the 90-day trial policy in small businesses will offer more opportunity for workers trying to get a foot on the employment ladder.

“This’ll be particularly beneficial to those who might not otherwise get the chance to find employment. People who might include new immigrants, former prison inmates, and long-term beneficiaries.”

Ms Wilkinson says after talking to workers throughout the country it’s also clear that in these tight economic times many would appreciate the ability to trade a week’s holiday for cash.

“That would be only at the employee’s request and could not be raised in employment negotiations. National understands that many people are doing it hard, and they would opt for cash in hand rather than a week off work.

“But that won’t be the case for everyone, that’s why it will be entirely in the hands of the worker.”

ENDS

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