SFWU / PSA Joint media release

8 June 2010

For immediate release

SFWU and PSA appalled at Government's disregard for Human Rights

The Service and Food Workers Union and the Public Service Association are appalled by the decision of the New Zealand Government not to support an International Convention that protects the rights of domestic workers.

"The International Labour Organisation has been voting on an international convention to protect the rights of domestic workers. International conventions are incredibly important for developing countries as they provide the only benchmark in the absence of national legislation for this most vulnerable workforce," says SFWU National Secretary, John Ryall.

"New Zealand used to be a leader in supporting human rights and equality. Now we are an embarrassing laggard," says PSA National Secretary, Richard Wagstaff.

"Domestic workers are some of the most vulnerable workers and in many countries they are subject to shocking abuse. In our own country while they are one of our fastest growing workforces they are the lowest paid workers and they have the least protection because they work in peoples' homes" says John Ryall.

"It is very important for developing nations that countries such as New Zealand support International conventions. We provide important moral support."

"But even that aside, in New Zealand there are big and growing problems in respect of domestic workers. Domestic workers are usually women, they are always low paid, they are often migrants, their hours are not guaranteed, and they lack health and safety protection."

"There are suggestions that the shortage of care workers in New Zealand will be met by bringing in workers from the Pacific, and both unions say they are very concerned that at the same time the Government has voted not to support a standard about fair treatment and protection for domestic workers," says John Ryall.

"It is not only embarrassing, it is inexcusable. We will be asking who gave the direction to vote this way to the New Zealand representatives at the ILO, and the decision needs to be revisted." says Richard Wagstaff.

ENDS

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