New Holidays Bill Will Benefit Workers and Employers

“The new Holidays Bill is a huge step forward from the existing Act which dates back to the 1940s,” said Council of Trade Unions president Ross Wilson today.

“It will restore some entitlements for workers lost during the Employment Contracts era, as well providing a simpler and more comprehensive Act for employers to work from,” he said.

The new Holidays Bill was tabled in Parliament today.

“The new bill is the product of a lengthy tripartite Advisory Committee and drafting process and reflects a high level of consensus between the CTU and Business NZ,” said Ross Wilson.

“Governments have backed off tackling this hot potato for the past 10 years and getting a Bill into Parliament is a real achievement for the Minister of Labour and the tripartite processes she put in place.”

Ross Wilson said the bill also delivered on the Labour Party election promises to provide an additional payment for workers who have to work on public holidays and to separate bereavement leave out as a minimum code entitlement.

“After all, it has never been fair that workers should have to use their sick leave to attend the funeral or tangi of a close family member,” he said.

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