Government's employment law changes condemned

“The changes will further tilt the balance of power in employment relationships in favour of the employer at the expense of workers,” says Chris Abercrombie, PPTA Te Wehengarua president.

Chris Abercrombie said the law changes eroded many employment protections, including personal grievance and contractor provisions, that have served New Zealanders well for decades.

 “PPTA Te Wehengarua members stand in solidarity with ride-hailing app drivers and other vulnerable workers who will be hit particularly hard by today’s changes.  

“Employment law protections exist to shape the kind of society we want: A society where work sustains people, power is accountable, and fairness is built in, not bargained away.

“Businesses in New Zealand are strongest when their success is built alongside fair treatment and respect for the workers who keep them running. This makes the Government’s decision to enact the legislation over the objection of unions and workers from across the country particularly disappointing.”