1:07 AM |
EMBARGOED – For release 28 April 2009 Media Statement
Recession no excuse to compromise workplace health and safety
As Labour MPs attend Workers Memorial Day events around New Zealand today, the Opposition is urging workers and employers to be even more vigilant about workplace health and safety, Associate Labour spokesperson Darien Fenton says.
Workers Memorial Day is the day where working people join together to mourn New Zealand workers and workers throughout the world who are injured, diseased or killed on the job.
Associate Labour spokesperson, Darien Fenton says Labour is particularly concerned that health and safety will be compromised during the recession.
"Firms with tight margins and workers facing layoffs may be tempted to put aside the checks and balances required under current Health and Safety laws," Darien Fenton said.
"A driver may just keep driving to get the job done, or the worker may take on extra work within existing hours to keep their jobs safe. Or employers may take shortcuts in factory processes to try to increase production.
"We know the risks and the consequences. They are measured in the lives of the workers who are killed, injured or contract diseases at work every year in New Zealand.
"At the same time, workers are facing a government determined to cut back on ACC entitlements which just adds to the concern.
"Injury prevention in the workplace is a vital role for ACC but we have yet to see any assurances from the National/Act Government that they will continue that commitment.
"For every person killed, injured or made ill on the job, the cost to friends, families, workmates and communities is enormous.
"Today is the day to get the message out that there can be no compromise on workplace health and safety," said Ms Fenton.
Contact: Darien Fenton 021 684 093
<<PRfentonworkersApril27.doc>>
Kris Faafoi
Press Secretary
Hon. Phil Goff
Leader of the Opposition
+64 4 817 8284
+64 21 648 859
kris.faafoi@parliament.govt.nz
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