The Living Wage Movement is once again calling on NZ
First to stand by its election promise to protect the Living
Wage for government-contracted cleaners, security guards,
and caterers.
Minister Nicola Willis has proposed
scrapping the Living Wage requirement for these
workers.
On the election trail, NZ First MP Andy
Foster stated the party’s commitment to retaining this
policy.
When speaking directly to government cleaners,
security guards, and caterers, Mr. Foster said, “If you
want someone to advocate for you in this Government, then
it’s really got to be New Zealand First.”
“If
you’re on the Living Wage, how can we take that away? That
is not fair.”
Watch a video
of NZ First’s public commitment here :
https://vimeo.com/926076002
With
Minister Willis’ proposal under consultation and a cabinet
decision pending, the Movement says now is time for the
coalition party to act on their commitment.
“Our
position is clear – this procurement rule must not be
scrapped. It’s a practical way for the Government to
improve lives and show these workers that they are
valued,” says Gina Lockyer, Executive Director of the
Living Wage Movement.
“When workers are
paid the Living Wage, they’re more engaged, attentive, and
they stick around. Their reliance on government subsidies is
reduced. That’s value for
money.”
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“With government facilities
all over the country, the policy is delivering for Kiwis
from Kaitaia to Bluff.”
In Parliament today, acting
Prime Minister Winston Peters, a former union delegate, said
he wants to see workers paid properly for their
work.
“Having a Living Wage requirement in their
procurement policy is the best way to make this a reality,”
says Gina.
“For example, all accredited Living Wage
Employer have Living Wage procurement policies. They want to
be assured that their contracted workers can make ends meet
– and it works.”
The Movement has met government
cleaners and security guards who voted for NZ First because
of its reputation for standing up for regional New Zealand
and hardworking Kiwis.
“Now is the perfect
opportunity for NZ First Ministers to show they’re
fighting to protect workers in the buildings and facilities
they oversee – ‘looking after their own backyard,’ so
to
speak.”
