Media release
28 August 2012
Drug Testing Policy Will Help Make Jobseekers More Work-Ready
Pre-employment drug testing in industries where it is warranted will help increase the work-readiness of jobseekers
coming off benefits, says BusinessNZ.
Chief Executive Phil O'Reilly says the decision to require all jobseekers in those industries - whether on a benefit or
not - to be tested is fair.
"The new policy will be good for those workplaces where there is a drug testing regime in place. It is not singling out
beneficiaries, but is ensuring equality for all.
"All workers on those sites currently need to be subject to testing and be drug-free, and new employees coming off a
benefit will not be treated any differently.
"This requirement will also help those currently on a benefit to become more employable.
"A safe workplace is every worker's right - this is the fundamental reason for drug testing. It is good that the policy
is to be applied consistently.
"Of course drug testing forms only part of the process of getting beneficiaries ready for work. We hope the Government
continues to address the issue of ensuring everyone has sufficient literacy, numeracy and technical skills required for
the modern workplace.”
ENDS