24 August 2017
Auckland retail workers celebrate decision to keep Easter Sunday shop-free
The union representing retail workers in Auckland is welcoming Auckland Council’s decision to protect family time and
keep Easter Sunday shop-free.
“This is a victory for retail workers and their families,” said FIRST Union Retail and Finance Secretary Maxine Gay.
“Unlike other New Zealanders, people who work in retail are often on the job on public holidays. That means they often
miss out on time with their families, their friends and their communities.”
“The only days retail workers can count on as guaranteed days off are Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and part
of ANZAC Day. We’ve always said these restricted trading days are worth protecting,” said Gay.
Councillors attending the debate were welcomed to the Council Chambers this morning by dozens of retail workers,
church-goers and everyday Aucklanders calling for Easter Sunday to remain shop-free.
Auckland Councillor Efeso Collins also presented a 2000-strong petition calling on councillors to retain the status quo
and protect retail workers’ family time.
“Our members see this as a victory for family time. Now they can plan for next year’s Easter weekend knowing that they
won’t be rostered on at work,” said Gay.
ENDS