NZEI RELEASE
27th October 2008 For Immediate Release
Employment Relations Policy Furthers Commitment To Low Paid
The education sector union NZEI Te Riu Roa says Labour's employment relations policy shows a further commitment to
improve the pay and conditions of low paid workers.
It says the Labour-led government has already moved to address the issue of low pay among frontline school support
staff. Last month it promised additional funding to deliver a pay jolt to take into their collective agreement
negotiations next year, and drag their pay rates out of the low paid bracket.
"This package of policy announcements, with promises to increase the minimum wage, protect collective bargaining and set
new redundancy regulations, will all help strengthen the position of the low paid, "says NZEI National Secretary Paul
Goulter.
"With tougher economic times being signaled, it is heartening to see a party which is willing to deliver fairer pay and
conditions to low paid workers, and put that commitment into policy," he says.
ENDS