CTU media release
2 June 2009

The good and the bad of the Holidays Act Review

Today’s announcement on the Holidays Act Review by the Minister of Labour has elements that will reassure workers but will also raise concerns, said CTU Vice President Richard Wagstaff.

“We welcome the inclusion of a number of strong statements which will reassure workers that this is not a wholesale attack on their holidays and pay entitlements when off sick, including the requirement that policy advice from the committee will not reduce workers’ entitlements under the Act and the requirement that current core holiday and leave entitlements are maintained,” said Wagstaff.

“On the negative side is the inclusion in the terms of reference of options for the trading of leave for cash which, while not unexpected, have the potential to see workers being pressured to sell holidays. Although the terms of reference state that the sale of leave will only be at the employee’s request, we know from our experience that those on low pay or under pressure of workload from their employer will not have a truly free choice. We also know that holidays add to the quality of life in this country, make for healthier families, make workplaces safer and have a number of other benefits which need to be considered in any policy change.”

The CTU has two representatives on the review committee. It is committed to working towards making the Holidays Act easier to operate for everyone, but also to ensuring that any negative impacts on work rights are opposed.

ENDS

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