Members Bill Will Take Key’s Attack On Workers’ Rights Head On

The Government’s move to extend the ninety day ‘fire at will’ law is disappointing but far from surprising, says Labour MP Carmel Sepuloni.

“Labour opposed this legislation from the start. In a time of economic uncertainty, workers deserve to know that their jobs are secure and that they cannot be fired for no good reason,” Carmel Sepuloni said.

“National’s ‘fire at will’ law and John Key’s plans to extend it to all companies is a an attack on workers’ rights.

“This issue has remained important to the Labour Party, and this is why my member’s bill was developed.

“The Employment Relations (Probationary Period Repeal) Amendment Bill seeks to get rid of the ninety day period in which employees can be fired without reason. It was pulled out of the ballot last month – and the timing couldn’t have been better. This is a debate that needs to happen.

“We always knew the Government would look to expand the provisions of this legislation. The National Party has proven itself time and time again to be working for the interests of the few, against the many.

“Every working person in New Zealand deserves basic rights within his or her workplace – but these rights are exactly what National is trying to take away.

“Labour will be showing their commitment to the rights of workers, by voting for the Employment Relations (Probationary Period Repeal) Amendment Bill. I encourage any National MP who cares about his or her constituents and their livelihoods to do the same.”

ENDS

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