“Poverty, the oldest scourge and the modern scourge, derives in much of the world from miserable pay for long hours of work. This is unacceptable in 'poor' countries. It is a disgrace in well-off countries like New Zealand.” - John Pilger

1 February 2006

To All GPJA Supporters

Kia Ora Koutou,

A community campaign is underway to support low paid workers and this unique letter is a direct appeal to all GPJA supporters to make it a priority to attend a critical community rally in support of this campaign.

A public rally in support of the campaign has been organised to increase pressure on employers and the government to meet the objectives of the campaign.

Public Rally in Support of Low Paid Workers Sunday 12th February, 2pm Auckland Town Hall

The campaign has been spearheaded by UNITE – the union representing many low paid workers but it has become clear that they will need as much support as they can get in their fight against these multinationals. Widespread public support is critical.

The objectives of the campaign are:

• Set the minimum wage at $12 per hour (A single wage earner working a 35 hour week should be able to bring in enough money to support a family)

• Secure hours of work (These workers often face big fluctuations in hours from one week to the next so their income goes up and down like a yoyo too!)

• Abolish Youth Rates (This is where young people under 18 are paid less than adults despite doing the same work – many employers exploit this law)

A media conference held last week in support of the campaign featured Ross Wilson from the Council of Trade Unions, Sue Bradford from the Green Party, Donna Wynd from Child Poverty Action, Youth Law, Laila Harre from the National Distribution Union, Rev Mua Pua representing Pacific Communities and several other groups.

John Minto spoke on behalf of GPJA and gave our support to the campaign.

The campaign has reached a critical stage. Low paid workers are engaging in strike action while a private members bill has been introduced by Green MP Sue Bradford to abolish youth rates and it will be presented in parliament on Wednesday 15th Feb.

It is critical that a big community turnout takes place.

We make this personal appeal to all GPJA supporters to support the lowest paid members of our community and make it a top priority to attend. The rally includes bands and entertainment. Imon Star from Rhombus will host the event.

To help with organisation we would like you to register your attendance at SuperSizeMyPay.Com/register.

You can also email friends and download publicity material at our website at http://www.SuperSizeMyPay.com

Yours in the campaign for Peace and Justice here and around the world!

John Minto and Mike Treen GPJA Spokespeople

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