NZNO Fairness @ Work Meetings 20 October 2010

1. NZNO Fairness @ Work Meetings 20 October 2010 Presentation Developed by: Mark Lennox – Industrial Advisor

2. Purpose of this meeting • To provide information for members to highlight the impact of the potential changes to the Employment Relations Act (ERA) • To participate with other union members as part of the national day of action protest against the governments proposed ERA changes • Update for members on issues related to the MECA

3. Introduction Earlier this year the Government proposed the introduction of 32 amendments to the Employment Relations Act (ERA) these are currently being debated by the Select Committee. The CTU affiliated unions which includes NZNO have been protesting against these changes. Today CTU unions across the country are taking action to raise awareness and challenge the governments agenda about how workers should be treated. NZNO members are participating in a range of Fairness @ Work Activities, morning teas, paid meetings, attendance at multi union rallies and marches.

4. Why should we be concerned? • The last time (1991) we saw changes similar to those being proposed we lost our national award (MECA) and saw the loss of entitlements and terms and conditions. • The current legislation goes some way to recognizing the power imbalance in the employment relationship, but the proposed changes all favor the employers interests. • The proposed changes will in many situations result in a loss of job security, intimidation, unfair processes and access to timely representation being threatened. • When the Employment Contracts Act was introduced in 1991 unions were criticized for not responding effectively enough – we are meeting today to ensure that members understand the potential impact and unfairness of these proposed changes.

5. Summary of changes • Extension of 90 Day “fire at will” law to all workplaces • Restricted access to onsite union representation • Weakening the unfair dismissal protections. • Removal of reinstatement as the primary remedy when unjustifiably dismissed

6. Summary of changes continued • Direct communication from employers to members during bargaining • Early mediation without representation • Allowing the sale of the 4th week of annual leave and calculation of leave pay • The requirement for medical certificates to be provided on each occasion of sick leave

7. Where to from here? • NZNO along with other unions will continue to oppose these changes through protest and submissions to the parliamentary process. • All members need to understand the issues and the impact on our working rights and the communities that we care for. • We need participate overtly in defending our right to fairness, dignity and respect at work

8. Update on MECA issues • This month DHB members with email addresses on our data base will receive an electronic questionnaire about the last bargaining round. • This feedback will inform the planning for the next round of bargaining, please take the time to complete the survey. • Engagement at the national level through the NBAG commenced earlier this year. This is particularly important with the setting up of the National Health Board and the impact of the decisions made there.

9. NZNO Getting Better Together