The coalition agreements set out by the incoming government are nothing less than an attack on working Kiwis, their
rights, and their needs said the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions.
NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff said, “The programme provided today shows that incoming Government is out of touch with
the priorities of New Zealanders, and the challenges that they face.”
“It is telling that one of the first areas of work they have highlighted for action is the repeal of Fair Pay
Agreements, and the reintroduction of 90-day trials. Both measures are designed to reduce security for workers, and to
make it easier to fire employees.
“At a time of economic hardship for many in a cost-of-living crisis, this is simply appalling and insensitive.
“We are alarmed to hear that they wish to revise already weak health and safety regulations, especially in light of the
high fatalities and serious injuries experienced in the workplace today. Removing the ability to challenge your
employment status as a contractor will also mean that more workers face discrimination and exploitation.
“National’s tax plan now makes even less fiscal sense given that significant parts of it have been withdrawn due to the
loss of the foreign buyers’ tax. This puts a $3 billion gap in their plans which is not addressed in the agreements. We
are highly concerned that they will fill the gap with even deeper cuts to essential public services like schools and
hospitals. The government should provide transparency urgently as to how that gap will be filled.
“The incoming Government makes clear in its documents that public services will be stripped further and faster than
previously thought. At the same time new commitments are made for health and education without any new funding. This
will mean deeper cuts to services all Kiwis rely upon. The commitment to part privatising elements of health and
education should particularly concern New Zealanders.
“All New Zealanders should be deeply concerned at the attacks on Māori, highlighted by the proposals by to remove
co-governance and bodies such as the Māori Health Authority. The proposal to Introduce a Treaty Principles Bill risks
damaging community relations in New Zealand, and does nothing to support Māori. The government is a Treaty partner and
should recognise and honour its agreements to the Treaty, rather than abdicate its responsibilities.
“These proposals confirm the worst fears of the New Zealand public about the incoming government. This programme will
damage the lives of many middle- and low-income Kiwis and will set back progress on essential issues. Now is the time
for all organisations around Aotearoa to unite to challenge this dangerous and damaging direction for the country.”