Re-Think of Health And Safety Reforms Needed

Health and safety reforms unintentionally threaten the life and soul of our volunteer organisations and clubs, says New Zealand First.

“While New Zealand First strongly supports the intent of the Health and Safety Reform Bill to reduce workplace injuries it opens a Pandora’s box of unintended consequences,” says New Zealand First Labour and Industrial Relations Spokesperson Clayton Mitchell.

“The Bill incorporates anyone co-ordinating or overseeing work, whether it be volunteer or otherwise.

“A club may find itself subject to court action and fines if one of its volunteers organises the efforts of another volunteer and something goes amiss.

“It was drafted on the Australian model without acknowledging the differences, namely the existence of ACC, says Mr Mitchell.

“New Zealand First has written a minority report expressing our opposition.

“According to some commentators, the call for a re-think is a growing view of a number of government backbenchers. We will be watching this space closely.”

ENDS

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