More deaths and injuries will result from health and safety backdown

The Public Service Association (PSA) says the gutting of the proposed new health and safety legislation will result in more workplace deaths and injuries, breaking John Key’s promise to the nation after the Pike River tragedy.

Richard Wagstaff, PSA national secretary, said "The Government had the opportunity after Pike River to pass good law that would keep workers safe, but they have failed,"

"The Bill as it now stands should not be passed, and we support the parties who have said they will vote against it.

"Workers are hurt and die in small businesses every year, but this law will prevent them from taking every possible step to keep themselves and each other safe.

"The changes to this bill means workers will have less voice and less power to keep themselves safe.

"International and local experience shows the safest systems are the ones that facilitate strong participation from workers on the ground.

"How many more children have to be left without parents before this Government will stand up to the few who don’t care about safety?

"Nobody should go to work without knowing that they will come home safely," said Richard Wagstaff.

ENDS

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