Coalition Celebrating Equal Pay Case Outcome

“The Court of Appeal’s decision declining the employers’ appeal in the Kristine Bartlett case is a huge victory for women workers” said Pay Equity Coalition Challenge spokesperson Angela Macleod.

“The Courts’ decision that equal pay may be determined across industries in female-dominated occupations revitalises the Equal Pay Act 1972 and will be a major factor in closing New Zealand’s stubborn 14 percent gender pay gap”.

The judgement by the Court of Appeal upholding the Employment Court decision again validates the work of caregivers and that they are underpaid, she said.

“We commend the Service and Food Workers Union Nga Ringa Tota in taking this case and exposing the underpayment and undervaluation of aged care workers. And the decision is a victory for all the women’s organisations who have never given up fighting for equal pay,” said Angela MacLeod.

"We are celebrating today because the Court of Appeal agreed with the Employment Court that care workers deserve justice and equity in their wages. These workers are treasured by the people for whom they care and by their families. Now its time to reflect that value through fair and decent wages."

The decision is available here: http://www.courtsofnz.govt.nz/front-page/cases/terranova-homes-care-ltd-v-service-and-food-workers-union-nga-ringa-tota-inc-and-anor

ENDS

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