A bill aimed at putting more compulsion on employers is misconceived, says Business NZ.
The Employment Relations Flexible Working Hours Bill, put forward by the Green party, would make it compulsory for an employer to consider an employee’s request for flexible working hours; would require the employer to make a full business case to support their decision; and would make the employer pay compensation if they failed to comply.
Business NZ chief executive Phil O’Reilly says compulsion isn’t appropriate.
“Employers already know that taking account of staff needs and diversity are the best way to retain staff in a tight labour market, and Business NZ is already working with the Government on behalf of thousands of enterprises that are committed to providing family-friendly workplaces.
“So it’s surprising that the Government helped send the bill to select committee. Perhaps it is trying not to offend the Greens in election year.
“Unfortunately, Labour’s support for the Greens on this issue means the bill has a fair chance of becoming law. This is not good for business – enterprises should be focused on competitiveness, not compliance traps.
“A new law isn’t necessary. We already have laws against discrimination on the grounds of sex, pregnancy and family status.(1)
“And it’s an employee’s market, the tightest labour market in history - smart employers will naturally want to provide a family-friendly environment to attract and retain staff.”
Mr O’Reilly said there were more women than men in employment (2), many in part-time positions, and there was evidence that the large growth in part-time jobs (3) during the current labour shortage was in response to employee wishes.
“This indicates there is already a mindset of flexibility among employers.”
(1) Employment Relations Act, Human Rights Act
(2) 835,400 female / 820,800 males; Statistics NZ Quarterly Employment Survey Dec 2004 quarter
(3) Part-time employment increased 5.3% in the 2004 Dec quarter and 6.9% over the Dec 2004 year, a higher rate than the growth of full-time employment (0.5% and 3.8%)
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