Regulations Review Risks Diversion from Real Challenge

"The Council of Trade Unions is not opposed to improving the quality of our regulatory environment, but New Zealand is already judged the easiest country in the world to do business, with a comparably light regulatory framework," CTU president Ross Wilson said.

"We would be concerned that the wide ranging review of regulation announced yesterday should not be a diversion from the real challenges of moving our economy up the value chain, through investment in skills, capital and technology."

"Regulations are in place to protect New Zealanders - whether it is ensuring health and safety, minimising harm or protecting the quality and international reputation of our good and services," said Ross Wilson.

"A high quality regulatory framework is an important part of building the higher value economy, not a nuisance that gets in the way of it, and we will be vigilant in ensuring that high standards are maintained, especially in relation to health and safety and labour," he said.