The Green Party welcome released government guidance for vulnerable people at Alert Level 3 that will ensure they are supported by their employers to either stay home or safely return to work.
“The guidelines released today acknowledge that different vulnerable New Zealanders have diverse circumstances, and that their employers may need guidance to protect workers’ rights and wellbeing.
“We know some employers may be making elderly employees stay home despite it being safe for them to return to work.
“On the inverse, those that are less obviously vulnerable, for instance the immune-suppressed, may be coerced into coming to work by their employer despite it being unsafe to do so.
“Combatting that pressure on vulnerable workers was a focus for me on behalf of the Green Party when working with Minister Martin on these guidelines.
“These guidelines mean regardless of your vulnerability, whether it old age or a suppressed immunity, there is clear direction that supports you to either go back to work, work from home, or take time off work, with Government support.
“I’m glad to have worked with Minister Martin to see guidance for less visible New Zealanders so they too are supported to stay safe by their employer.
“Being told you must go into work because your employer doesn’t properly understand the risks can be embarrassing and stressful.
“Hopefully these guidelines will give peace of mind to New Zealanders.
“The Greens will continue to raise the voices of vulnerable and marginalised New Zealanders and will work with our government partners to ensure they’re heard and supported during this pandemic”.
Good initiative.
…where are the trade unions?
Trade Unions …..YESSSS!
Just as past govts demolished the unions this one can build them up.
Govt can pay half or full union fees for joining members providing unions show strong performance in educating members, providing a range of services and get off their arses and make union membership work for the industry and its workers with full protection at all levels. Unions need the power to enter the workplace and observe worker conditions as well as have site meetings. Employers must also be available to union staff upon request.
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