CTU MEDIA RELEASE
20 June 2006

Campaign Building Against 90 Days Bill

The campaign by unions against a National Party plan to expose workers to unfair dismissal is building, the Council of Trade Unions said today.

"This afternoon the EPMU launched their WorkRights campaign - which builds on the work many unions have been doing in the last two months to educate and organise workers around the dangers of National's Bill," said Carol Beaumont, CTU Secretary.

"The union campaign is clearly having an affect," said Carol Beaumont. "Workers are talking about this Bill and deciding on what action they will take. This has included mass postcards to MPs, leafleting at fleamarkets and other public spaces, public meetings, and activities planned for July 20."

"MPs can also expect visits from workers over the coming weeks as unions meet with MPs that supported the Bill at first reading. We were pleased with Pita Sharples decision to vote against the Bill, and are we are now working with other MPs to inform them of the consequences of National's Bill."

The EPMU and other unions will be rallying on Parliament on July 20, as part of a National Week of Action against the Bill. Unionists in Auckland, Nelson, Christchurch and Dunedin will also be having campaign activities that week and in the weeks leading up to July 20.

"Workers are opposing National's plan to create a new category of worker - the 90 day disposable worker," said Carol Beaumont. "Today's campaign launch is the next step in the campaign to stop this proposal."

ENDS

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