Anti-Capitalist mayoral candidate, and nurse, Daphna Whitmore, has condemned the proposed changes to the Holidays Act.

The changes will prevent workers getting penal rates if they are ill on a public holiday, and will extend to the employer the right under certain circumstances to demand a medical certificate before three days have passed.

"Many workers only get 5 paid sick days a year. That is what is inadequate about the present law, not that they could get penal rates if off sick when rostered to work on a public holiday" she said. "Sick leave provisions for workers need to be extended, not minimised".

She also condemned giving employers the right to demand medical certificates, particularly when off work for fewer than 3 days.

"I work in a busy medical centre. The medical staff are overworked as it is without having to spend time filling out forms for employers. For many simple illnesses, such as viral coughs and colds, the recommendation from doctors is simply rest for a day or so until feeling better. The last thing a sick worker needs is to have to rush around getting a medical certificate for one day off work.

"Much better to stay home, rest and recover.

"Medical staff are on hand to see those people who are needing medical treatment, not to service the demands of employers."

Daphna Whitmore Anti-Capitalist Alliance

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