Pay Equity Coalition Media Release

11 May 2012

Mothers : worth more than a bunch of flowers

New Zealand needs to show it values mothers - ( and babies, and dads) on more than just one day a year by extending paid parental leave to 26 weeks, say a group meeting today to celebrate Mothers Day and call for more paid parental leave.

“As mums, we love having a fuss made over us on Mothers Day,” said spokesperson Rebecca Matthews. “While we know our families appreciate all the work we do, we’re not so sure that this government values mothers. If they did, they would withdraw their threat to veto Sue Moroney’s bill for 26 weeks paid parental leave.”

Matthews said mums, kids and other supporters of more paid parental leave would be gathering today to send the government a message that 26 weeks paid parental leave is necessary and beneficial for New Zealand parents and children.

“Six months leave helps promote breastfeeding and will be better for the health of mums and babies,” said Rebecca Matthews. “We want a full select committee process that shows us the real benefits and the real costs of more paid parental leave. We want an opportunity to convince National and ACT why they should join every other party in parliament and support this bill.”

Mothers, children and other supporters of 26 weeks paid parental leave will be picnicking indoors to celebrate Mothers Day, and to call for an increase to paid parental leave.

Sue Moroney and other representatives including Peter Dunne and Jan Logie will address the picnic. Picnickers will deliver some Mothers Day gifts to be presented to the Minister of Women’s Affairs.

1-2pm, 6th floor, PSA House, Aurora Tce (due to weather)

ENDS

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