26 August 2009
Media Statement

Kate Wilkinson should get out more

Labour Minister Kate Wilkinson should not hide away from workers who are understandably concerned about jobs losses, Labour’s spokesperson on labour issues Trevor Mallard said today.

The Minister has reportedly refused to meet with representatives of the National Distribution Union today, telling them “the risks were too great for her to come”.

“She said, through her office, that she can’t meet with any union because a separate union, the EPMU, had taken industrial action against Telecom on Monday.

“That is a very poor excuse, which, frankly, does not wash. Either she doesn’t know what day of the week it is – Monday is two days ago, can’t tell the difference between the NDU and the EPMU or is simply too scared to front.

“If National intends to be even handed on labour issues, then John Key should follow suit with an announcement that the Government does not intend to meet with any employers at this time,” Trevor Mallard said.

ENDS

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