3 November 2009
Media Statement

Declining work means more bad times for redundant workers

Figures out today showing that jobs and hours continue to decrease means more hard times for workers facing redundancy, says Darien Fenton, Labour’s Associate Labour spokesperson.

The Quarterly Employment Survey released by Statistics New Zealand today shows that the number of full-time equivalent employees, filled jobs, and seasonally adjusted total paid hours have all decreased in the year to September 2009 for the fourth consecutive quarter.

“New Zealand has had another fortnight of big redundancy announcements, and the figures today give no cause for comfort to those facing an uncertain jobs future,” says Ms Fenton.

“Those losing their jobs face hard times, as these figures show that the period it takes to find another job is likely to be extended.”

Darien Fenton says she is particularly concerned about the workers who are being laid off with little notice and no redundancy compensation.

“The situation is shocking for workers who are laid with nothing. They are severely disadvantaged because they won’t have the funds it takes to help find a new job.

“The bills don’t stop coming in, the rent still needs to be paid and the family fed, but somehow, the Government thinks that these workers should make it on their own.

“It doesn’t have to be like this and that’s why I am again calling on the National Government to support my Redundancy Protection Bill, which would at least ensure that workers who are laid off through no fault of their own have something to tide them over until they get a new job,” Ms Fenton said.

ENDS

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