20 February 2002 PR21/02
Paid Parental Leave Bill fails Self Employed
The Parental Leave and Employment Protection (Paid Parental Leave) Amendment Bill will fail to assist those in greatest
need, create significant inequities for the self-employed and casual employees and will do little to enhance the
employment opportunities of women and parents, Federated Farmers of New Zealand Vice President told the Social Services
Select Committee today.
"Gender Equity in Employment and Parental Leave is important, but New Zealand already has robust anti-discrimination
legislation that provides strong job protection for parents taking time off work," said Mr Lambie
"The Bill does not recognise the needs and rights of self-employed parents who comprise 20% of the paid workforce and
75% of paid people working in the farming sector.
"Mothers and children make a significant contribution to the financial and physical operation of the farm business.
Access to health and education services, including kindergarten services, and to childcare is poorer and more expensive
to obtain for rural people in comparison to their urban counterparts.
"If the Government decides to provide extra financial assistance for parents and young families, then it should give
serious consideration to modifying and enhancing the current Parental Tax Credit Scheme including providing a minimum
payment to all parents."
ENDS
For more information: Tom Lambie, PH 04 473 7269 or 026 113 161 Gavin Forrest, PH 04 473 7269 Sally Millar, PH
04 473 7269 or 025 296 3810