1. DARIEN FENTON (Labour) Link to this
to the Minister of Labour
Has she received any reports relating to proposed changes to the Employment Relations Act 2000?
Hon RUTH DYSON (Minister of Labour) Link to this
Yes, I have. I have seen one report that states: “Under National, expect quite significant changes. There was nothing wrong with the Employment Contracts Act.” Another states: “Broadly speaking we weren’t planning to make major changes … we haven’t argued … that we would go all the way back to the Employment Contracts Act, …”. Both of these contradictory statements are from John Key.
Actually, I have. The first is a report stating: “We support flexible labour markets because countries with such markets have lower unemployment.” A second report states: “The Employment Relations Act has been one of the driving forces to New Zealand having low levels of unemployment.” Both statements, again contradictory, were from John Key, and both were made in the same month.
Has the Minister seen any other reports relating to proposed changes to the Employment Relations Act?
I have seen a report that the Exclusive Brethren sought to change the law in an attempt to bar unions from all their workplaces, regardless of size. They described employment relationships—
Madam SPEAKERWe are not having a repeat of what we had last Thursday. Members are entitled to be heard. Interjections are not to create disorder in the House.
The Exclusive Brethren described the employment relationship as one of master and servant. This unsuccessful attempt was supported by the National Party. A second report shows that National’s new industrial relations spokesperson, Kate Wilkinson, used to work for the Exclusive Brethren as legal counsel in Christchurch. Considering her close associations with the Exclusive Brethren, I wonder what concessions she wants to grant them.
Would the Minister please repeat the answer. I assume that is what Mr Mark was about to request. The member knows full well that reports are sought and reports are being given.
A second report shows that National’s new industrial relations spokesperson, Kate Wilkinson, used to work for the Exclusive Brethren as legal counsel in Christchurch. Considering her close associations with the Exclusive Brethren, I wonder what concessions she wants to grant them.
Heather RoyWhy does this Government have such a problem with two consenting adults freely engaging in capitalist acts for their mutual self-benefit?
Peter BrownHas the Minister seen any reports, or is she otherwise aware, that many employers—particularly small employers—are not even acquainted with section 67 of the Employment Relations Act, which provides for probationary employment; if she is aware of this, will she take cognisance of the representations New Zealand First made to her that there should be an education campaign, particularly for small employers?
Yes, I am aware of that fact. It was very obvious during submissions on Wayne Mapp’s bill that was defeated recently by this Parliament. I have taken notice of the representation of that member and agreed to an education campaign.
Rodney Hide