The Maritime Union of New Zealand has condemned the Government's attacks on hard-won pay equity legislation, describing these as a direct assault on the rights and economic well-being of women and all working New Zealanders.

Maritime Union National Assistant Secretary Fiona Mansell says the Government's proposed changes to the pay equity framework will wreck decades of progress, undermine fairness and equality in the workplace, and harm women in historically undervalued occupations.

“The proposals completely undermine the principle that women deserve equal pay for work of equal value,” says Ms Mansell.

“For years, unions have fought tirelessly to establish and strengthen pay equity laws. Weakening pay equity laws will entrench poverty and make it harder for working families to get by.”

Ms Mansell says pay equity is a critical component of addressing the gender pay gap and ensuring economic justice.

The Maritime Union of New Zealand stands in solidarity with women workers and is working with other unions across the country who have voiced strong opposition to the Government's backward stance.

“Given the serious implications for women's rights, workers' rights, and economic fairness, MUNZ believes Workplace Relations Minister Van Velden’s position has become untenable.”

She says the Maritime Union was calling for Minister Van Velden’s immediate resignation.

The Maritime Union of New Zealand will continue fighting alongside the wider union movement and women workers to protect and advance pay equity.

© Scoop Media