Media Release Wednesday, 7th November 2001

Low paid women benefit from PPL

Delegates at the Service & Food Workers Union (SFWU) Northern Region Conference in Auckland today welcomed the government’s announcement on Paid Parental Leave.

“Women are particularly please about the emphasis on low paid workers receiving 100% of their income”, said Ms Darien Fenton, SFWU National Secretary.

“Our women members tell us of the difficulties they face when making the decision to have children,” said Ms Fenton. “Many can’t afford to be off work without an income, even for a short period of time.”

“The only disappointment in this announcement is that many other woman earning more than $325 a week will have to take a cut in income.”

“We would also like to acknowledge the hard work, campaigning and commitment our women members and their supporters have shown in winning Paid Parental Leave for the first time in New Zealand.”

“It has been a long-drawn out and at times frustrating process,” said Ms Fenton. “But we’ve stuck with it and ultimately been successful.”

The women workers who will benefit most the Paid Parental Leave are available to comment to the media at the SFWU Delegates Conference venue today and tomorrow.

The SFWU Northern Region Delegates Conference venue is Alexandra Park Raceway, Greenlane West. (Members Stand, 4th Floor, Function Rooms.)

For further information contact Ms Darien Fenton - (0274) 360 089 (day) or (09) 810 9226 (evening).

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