12. DARIEN FENTON (Labour) Link to this
to the Minister of Labour
Does she stand by all of the statements made on her behalf in response to question for oral answer No. 11 on 9 September 2010?
Hon KATE WILKINSON Link to this
There are currently no plans to implement any changes to collective bargaining at this point other than the provisions—
Mr SPEAKERI apologise to the Minister for interrupting. I would like to go right back to the start and have Darien Fenton repeat her question because I struggled to hear it, and I ask the Minister whether she could speak a little closer to her microphone because it is difficult to hear her.
Hon KATE WILKINSON Link to this
There are no plans to implement any changes to collective bargaining at this time, except for changes that have already been signalled in the amendment bill that is currently before the Transport and Industrial Relations Committee.
If she stands by the statement given on her behalf that any changes to employment laws would “take into account all the issues for the benefit of employees and employers equally”, then how is a law that allows employees to be fired at will with no reason having to be given and with no right to an unjustifiable dismissal claim equally to the benefit of employees and employers?
Hon KATE WILKINSON Link to this
The 90-day trial provisions, which have been very successful and have been generally and universally accepted, do not take away rights. In fact, several rights are maintained and enhanced. The trial period gives opportunities for employees to get their foot in the door and get a job, which I would have thought that that member applauds.
What does she say to the warning from Dr Judy McGregor, Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner for the Human Rights Commission, that the 90-day trial law “offends against natural justice, the presumption of the law in favour of procedural fairness, and a commitment to a fair go for employees.”?
Hon KATE WILKINSON Link to this
It will probably come as no surprise to that member that I do not agree with the comments made by Dr Judy McGregor.