Statement From TVNZ Re Privileges Committee

17 February, 2006

Statement From TVNZ On Privileges Committee hearing

The Chairman of Television New Zealand, Craig Boyce, said today the TVNZ Board welcomed the forthcoming Privileges Committee hearing if it led to clarity over the rights and obligations of employers when their employees give evidence before Parliamentary Select Committees.

Mr Boyce said the TVNZ Board, having now had an opportunity to review the Speaker's decision, was encouraged that the Speaker appeared to be seeking greater clarity.

"The Speaker said, when she referred the matter to the committee yesterday, she believed the status of select committee witnesses in these circumstances warranted the attention of Parliament. We agree. And we hope this leads to some greater clarity about the rights of employers and employees when they confront this unusual situation.

The question remains how far should the conventions of Parliament take precedence over the protection of the reputation of the Company and the legitimate concerns of an employer regarding the retention of shareholder value. It will be particularly useful to have the Privileges Committee clarify this."

ENDS

© Scoop Media