24 July 2003

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Four weeks needed to keep New Zealanders in country

Supporters of four weeks leave continue to put their case to the select committee today as submissions are heard on Progressive Deputy Leader, Matt Robson's Four Weeks Leave bill.

"I congratulate The Engineering Printing and Manufacturing Union as they put their case for four weeks leave to the Transport and Industrial Relations Select Committee today.

"The EPMU made it clear today that some of New Zealand's biggest companies have long recognised the importance of keeping up with the rest of the world in both wage AND conditions, including holiday entitlements.

"Carter Holt Harvey gave all of its salaried workers four weeks leave back in 2000 arguing that they needed to keep up with Australia's working conditions, and in particular, their provision of four weeks annual leave. It is time other companies followed suit for all workers.

"I agree with the EPMU - if we want to keep skilled and talented workers in New Zealand we need to provide four weeks annual leave. It is a serious issue for the New Zealand economy to retain and attract skilled workers. We also need to ensure the lowest paid have the right to decent working conditions and four weeks leave is essential to that," said Matt Robson MP.

Matt Robson MP has received over 10,000 postcards from the public in support of his Four Weeks Leave Campaign.

ENDS

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