13 June 2013

Strike busting law proposed by National MP

CTU says that Jami-Lee Ross' Employment Relations (Continuity of Labour) Bill that would allow casual workers to be employed during a strike specifically as strike busters is another attack on collective bargaining and would reduce wages.

It should not be supported by the National Government.

Peter Conway, CTU Secretary says “National have rejected this policy to date and we encourage them not to change their mind. There are very few strikes in NZ. In 2011, the latest data available, there, were only 12 work stoppages. This is the lowest number since the series began in 1986.”

“But if this Bill became law then it would reduce the impact of a strike, it will create huge conflict between strikers and replacement labour when there is a dispute, it will make it harder to protect pay and conditions.”

“Workers are already campaigning against the Employment Relations Amendment Bill which will reduce wages and this Bill is just another attack.”

“Fair employment laws that encourage collective bargaining as the way to higher wages and productive and safe workplaces, not changes that undermine bargaining and make it even harder for workers to get ahead, would be a much better way,” says Peter Conway.

ENDS

© Scoop Media