INDEPENDENT NEWS

More can be done to lift labour productivity

Published: Thu 13 Mar 2008 11:44 AM
MEDIA RELEASE 13 March 2008
More can be done to lift labour productivity
Productivity statistics out today show that lifting labour productivity in periods of relatively low unemployment remains a challenge, the Council of Trade Unions said.
The figures show that labour productivity rose by 1.1% on average each year in the 2000 to 2007 period. This compares with 2.9% in the 1985-90 period, when labour inputs fell and there were large scale redundancies and rising unemployment.
Peter Conway, CTU Economist, said that while 1.1% is not a bad result, if we can lift the level of capital investment, focus on upskilling the workforce, and foster best practice at a workplace level, then labour productivity can rise.
"The CTU has been working with Business NZ and the Government to raise awareness about the importance of productivity, develop appropriate tools for productivity improvements and support pilot projects."
"Lifting the skill levels of the workforce, including new entrants, applying the best technology, and building decent workplaces is where the focus needs to be. This includes the need for improved levels of literacy and numeracy."
Peter Conway said that unions recognise that creating a high wage economy will require not only good collective bargaining arrangements, but sustainable lifts in productivity.
ENDS
New Zealand Council of Trade Unions
Te Kauae Kaimahi
The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi brings together over 350,000 New Zealand union members in 40 affiliated unions. We are the united voice for working people and their families in New Zealand.
Contact NZCTU
Website:
Twitter:
YouTube:
Phone:
Facebook:
Physical Address:
Level 3, 79 Boulcott Street, Wellington.
Media Contact:
communications@nzctu.org.nz
Postal Address:
PO Box 6645, Marion Square, Wellington 6141.

Next in New Zealand politics

Concerns Conveyed To China Over Cyber Activity
By: New Zealand Government
GDP Decline Reinforces Government’s Fiscal Plan
By: New Zealand Government
New Zealand Provides Further Humanitarian Support To Gaza And The West Bank
By: New Zealand Government
High Court Judge Appointed
By: New Zealand Government
Parliamentary Network Breached By The PRC
By: New Zealand Government
Tax Cuts Now Even More Irresponsible
By: New Zealand Labour Party
View as: DESKTOP | MOBILE © Scoop Media