The NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi strongly opposes this Bill. The right to strike is deeply entrenched. It is a fundamental right, intrinsically connected to the right to ‘freedom of association’.
As such it is rigorously protected by international conventions and firmly enshrined in our legal system. It is a blatant move to reduce the effectiveness of strike action for New Zealand Defence Force civilian staff and public service employees generally. Furthermore, it is an action that has been taken without being informed by any ‘sound and principled reasons for doing so.’
The NZCTU calls for this Bill to be abandoned. The limitation it places on workers rights is not justifiable in a free and democratic society. It should not be the business of the government to coddle employers who do not wish to face the impacts of lawful industrial action. This amendment is unfair, unbalanced and does not reflect good legislative policy.