Media release 12 December 2003
Request for more time to consider ERA changes
The cutoff date for submissions on the Employment Relations Law Reform Bill is not good timing, says Business NZ.
The Bill was introduced to Parliament yesterday and submissions must be made by 27 February.
Business NZ Chief Executive Simon Carlaw says the time for reading the Bill and making submissions coincides exactly
with New Zealand's summer holiday period.
"Anyone wanting to consider, discuss and make representations on the Bill won't get much of a summer holiday - a bit
odd, given the Government's promotion of work-life balance and longer holidays.
"This is a very complex Bill and a big ask. As the Bill will affect every employer and employee in New Zealand, it would
be reasonable to allow a slightly longer time to consider the Bill.
"Business NZ requests an extension of the submission date, to at least the end of April."
ENDS