No CTU ‘Proposal’ For Bargaining Agents’ Fees

MEDIA RELEASE

13 December 2002

No CTU ‘Proposal’ For Bargaining Agents’ Fees

“The Council of Trade Unions has made no proposal to legislate for bargaining agents’ fees,” said CTU president Ross Wilson today.

“Despite a media report and ACT allegations that a ‘proposal’ exists for a levy on non-union members the CTU is not aware of any proposal,” he said.

Ross Wilson said there was an issue among union members of free loading by non-members and picking up the benefits won in collective bargaining.

“But this is only one of a range of issues around the Employment Relations Act which need to be addressed,” he said.

“Some employers actively undermine the Employment Relations Act’s focus on collective bargaining and the intention of the Act is also undermined by some Court of Appeal decisions.”

Ross Wilson said there was a general expectation that these issues needed be addressed.

“Any strategies the CTU develops to address these issues will be consistent with international labour conventions,” he said.

ENDS

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