Workers and politicians speak out against phony "pay equity" Bill
WHAT: Political rally for workers and politicians speak out against the Government’s Employment (Pay Equity and Equal
Pay) Bill
WHEN: Tuesday 8th August, 12:00-12:30pm
WHERE: Parliament Forecourt, Parliament Buildings, Wellington
Update: The Speaker’s Office has revoked permission for this event to take place inside Parliament, so it has been moved
to the forecourt outside.
The PSA considers it unfortunate that a cross-party event to discuss Equal Pay legislation has been deemed too close to
a protest to be held inside Parliament, but it will be going on as planned outside instead.
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Tomorrow, the Government’s Employment (Pay Equity and Equal Pay) Bill will likely be read for the first time, and
politicians and workers are coming together to speak out against it.
"This legislation is not about pay equity - it’s about trying to shut it down," says Erin Polaczuk, PSA national
secretary.
"We’ve invited workers from traditionally female-dominated industries to meet with politicians so that both can air
their concerns about the Bill, and we’ll hear some strong criticisms from both unions and political parties about the
scope and impact of this regressive legislation."
Political speakers at the brief lunchtime event will include Labour Party leader Jacinda Ardern, Green Party MP Jan
Logie, Māori Party co-leader Marama Fox and NZ First MP Tracey Martin.
Union members who work in the care and support and education sectors from the PSA, NZEI and E tū will also speak briefly
on their issues with the Bill, and will be available to provide comment to media.
Erin Polaczuk (PSA) and Richard Wagstaff (CTU) will also be available for comment.
ENDS