29 August 2013

1200 rally for Fairness at Work in Christchurch

1200 workers rallied in Christchurch today to oppose the Government’s cuts to employment rights.

Workers unanimously endorsed a resolution calling for the Government to drop the law changes, which threaten to remove basic employment protections and reduce workers’ pay.

Council of Trades Unions president Helen Kelly, kitchen worker Ian Walker, SFWU youth representative Kim Tanner, railway workers’ organiser John Kerr and EPMU assistant national secretary Ged O’Connell addressed the rally.

CTU president Helen Kelly said “workers at the meeting were shocked at the Government’s attack on them after all Christchurch has already been through, and indicated strong support for the campaign.”

“People understand this law is designed to reduce their pay and attacks even the most basic work rights. They are very worried about how this law will impact them and their families.”

“Everyone at the rally has agreed to continue campaign activities in the region including protests, visiting local National MPs and building participation in their workplaces. They know that this is a political choice the Government is making to attack them when they are down and they intend to fight back.”

Today’s even follows a 5000-strong rally for fairness at work in South Auckland yesterday. Last week 1500 workers protested in Wellington.

ENDS

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