The Government’s move to strip back sick leave from part-time workers is yet another blow to women across Aotearoa.

“Stripping back sick leave for part-time workers means women will, inevitably, shoulder more unpaid labour,” says the Green Party’s Workplace Relations and Safety spokesperson, Teanau Tuiono.

“We can and must ensure that women are paid fairly, are treated with respect and are safe - things this Government is actively undermining.

“Getting sick doesn't depend on whether you’re full or part-time. Under these changes, only some will be protected.

“Part-time workers are disproportionately women, with many balancing jobs with caring responsibilities, like looking after sick children. This move means yet more unpaid work for them on top of what they are already doing to keep families, and our economy, going.

“This is another classic example of lacklustre policy from a government who undervalues women’s work. We saw it in the pay equity saga, we’re seeing it again today.

“In a cost-of-living crisis, we should not be putting more families into hardship. Too many families are already doing it tough in Aotearoa. No one should face financial hardship because they or a loved one get sick.

“A Green Government would ensure pay and working conditions are fair, equitable, and properly value the work women do every day across our country,” says Teanau Tuiono.

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