9 December 2004

Union welcomes smokefree law

A breath of fresh air for hospitality workers

Union welcomes smokefree law

Today a historical step has been taken to protect the health of workers in New Zealand’s clubs, pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants. The introduction of the Smokefree Amendments Act 2003 and its implementation tomorrow will see hospitality workers join the vast majority of New Zealand’s workers who have benefited from smokefree workplaces for over a decade.

Many SFWU members, including hundreds of Sky City staff, will reap the rewards of this legislation in the form of safer workplaces and cleaner air, without risk of disease or ill health.

“Cigarette smoke is a proven chemical poison that is and potentially deadly, workers should not have to put up with those risks. Especially with the low wages and long hours that many hospitality workers also endure.” Says Darien Fenton, SFWU National Secretary

“SFWU members have had a part to play in lobbying the Government for this law change. They are often in low-paid and casual work in the hospitality industry and they are being exposed to a known environmental danger – second-hand smoke. We are delighted that the Government has stepped up to the mark and moved to protect workers from this hazard.”

“This law change is long overdue, everyone else has had this form of protection for nearly a decade and now the Kiwi workers who serve us our drinks and clean up after our nights out can also breathe easy.” Ms Fenton said.

ENDS

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