Darien
FENTON
Labour Spokesperson

26 April 2013 MEDIA STATEMENT

Workplace Law Changes Whack Hard-Working Kiwis

The Government's plan to change workplace laws couldn't come at a worse time for hard-working Kiwis who are already finding it hard to get ahead, says Labour's spokesperson for Labour issues, Darien Fenton.

“Many people are struggling to stretch their pay cheque to make ends meet. Some are working two or three jobs to cover the cost of supporting their families. They’re prepared to put in the hard graft but instead of backing them, this Government has forgotten them.

“It’s making changes that will impact on the pay of every New Zealand worker and make it even harder for them to get ahead.

“The new legislation includes petty changes like cutting smoko breaks, but others such as the changes to collective bargaining and protection for vulnerable workers are a very serious attack.

“The fact that it has taken a year for the legislation to be drafted demonstrates how unworkable many of its provisions are and that the only people who will benefit from these changes are the increasing army of employment lawyers.

“Labour will oppose this legislation. The New Zealand labour market needs hands-on policies that help create decent work and fairness, not this return to failed policies of the past,” said Darien Fenton.

ENDS

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