Employment Leave Bill Will Cut Workers’ Leave and Pay

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Unite Union Opposes Employment Leave Bill That Cuts Workers’ Leave and Pay

Unite Union is opposing a proposed law change that would slash the pay and leave entitlements of tens of thousands of working people who are already struggling through the cost-of-living crisis.

The Employment Leave Bill, which had its first reading in Parliament last week, seeks to replace the current Holidays Act. Unite Union says the proposed changes would leave many workers worse off.

Under the bill, employees who regularly work overtime or pick up extra hours would receive less leave than they currently do. Work completed outside of “contracted hours” would no longer accrue sick leave or annual leave — a change that would disproportionately affect part-time and casual workers. The bill would also reduce how much workers are paid while on leave. If a worker takes leave for a shift where they would normally be paid more than one rate, they would be paid only the lowest rate for the entire leave period.

Unite Union represents many of the workers likely to be impacted, those employed in hospitality, cinemas, and fast food many of whom are casual and part time workers.

“These are people already struggling on low wages during a cost-of-living crisis,” said Tali Williams, Assistant Secretary of Unite Union. “It is shameful that the Government is not only refusing to help those most in need, but is actively legislating to make life tougher for them.”

Further proposed changes include reducing leave entitlements for workers who have received ACC compensation, and removing the requirement to provide a full day in lieu for workers who work shorter shifts on public holidays.

“Working people are already doing it tough,” Williams said. “They deserve holidays and time with their families, and they deserve to be paid properly for them. 

Unite Union strongly opposes this attack on the leave entitlements of the most vulnerable workers.”

ENDS

For more information contact:

Tali Williams | Assistant Secretary, Unite Union

Email: Tali@unite.org.nz,  Phone: 0226313292