The end of zero hours contracts - a win for vulnerable workers

A government back-down over zero hours contracts is a win for the union movement - and will protect some of New Zealand’s lowest-paid workers from exploitation.

The Public Service Association is applauding Labour MP Iain Lees-Galloway for securing National’s support for his amendment to the Employment Standards Legislation Bill.

The legislation originally sought to entrench the contracts, which require employees to be available for work at all times without any guarantee they’ll be offered work.

But after pressure from unions, the public and support parties, National has been forced to back away.

The legislation is being debated further today and Labour’s amendment has the numbers to pass.

"The PSA is overjoyed these unfair, exploitative employment deals are now a thing of the past," PSA National Secretary Glenn Barclay says.

"Public and union pressure led large employers like McDonalds, Restaurant Brands and Sky City to ditch zero-hours contracts.

"And now the government has followed suit.

"This is an excellent win for workers - and an important step towards securing decent jobs, reliable incomes and good lives for all New Zealanders."

ENDS

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