Southland Chamber of Commerce

Probation Employment Amendment Bill

Media Release
1st May 2006

PROBATION PERIOD = MORE HIRING, NOT FIRING

“The current hysteria over the proposed probation period contained in Dr Mapp’s private member’s bill is misplaced”, said Richard Hay, C.E.O Chamber Southland.

The Small Business Advisory Group recommended the introduction of a probationary period for three good reasons, all of which will enable more people to get jobs:

1. The probation period will enable employers to take a chance with new employees without the risk of expensive and lengthy personal grievance processes

2. It will enable people who have not had previous work experience to find their first job

3. It will also make it easier for people to re-enter the workforce.

"Contrary to union claims, the bill preserves core rights for employees on pay claims, holiday pay and sick leave. It also makes allowance for claims of serious discrimination, such as sexual harassment”, said Mr Hay. “In a tight labour market, there is no better way to encourage employers to employ new employees they may have previously considered to be high risk hires.”

“Overseas experience with probationary periods has demonstrated the benefits of employers and employees getting to know each other in a non-threatening environment, which more often than not, develops into a permanent, mutually beneficial, employment relationship. Although we are currently enjoying a high employment environment, everyone would agree that there is still much to be done at the margins. Probationary periods would have a significant and positive impact in this area.”

"We also need to be mindful of New Zealand’s competitive position. New Zealand is the only OECD country that does not have a probation period for new employees. It's time for New Zealand to wise up and introduce an employment law which has probation periods, while preserving essential rights” Mr Hay stated.

Chamber of Commerce Southland are currently preparing a submission to the select Committee and are seeking input from Southland Business, this is done through a short online questionnaire at wwwcommercesouth.com

Ends.
For further information contact Richard Hay C.E.O Chamber of Commerce Southland
0274-430072 or 03-218-7188

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		Probation Employment Amendment Bill Media Release 1st May 2006 PROBATION PERIOD = MORE HIRING, NOT FIRING “The current hysteria over the proposed probation period contained in Dr Mapp’s private member’s bill is misplaced”, said Richard Hay, C.E.O Chamber Southland. The Small Business Advisory Group recommended the introduction of a probationary period for three good reasons, all of which will enable more people to get jobs: 1. The probation period will enable employers to take a chance with new employees without the risk of expensive and lengthy personal grievance processes 2. It will enable people who have not had previous work experience to find their first job 3. It will also make it easier for people to re-enter the workforce. "Contrary to union claims, the bill preserves core rights for employees on pay claims, holiday pay and sick leave. It also makes allowance for claims of serious discrimination, such as sexual harassment”, said Mr Hay. “In a tight labour market, there is no better way to encourage employers to employ new employees they may have previously considered to be high risk hires.” “Overseas experience with probationary periods has demonstrated the benefits of employers and employees getting to know each other in a non-threatening environment, which more often than not, develops into a permanent, mutually beneficial, employment relationship. Although we are currently enjoying a high employment environment, everyone would agree that there is still much to be done at the margins. Probationary periods would have a significant and positive impact in this area.” "We also need to be mindful of New Zealand’s competitive position. New Zealand is the only OECD country that does not have a probation period for new employees. It's time for New Zealand to wise up and introduce an employment law which has probation periods, while preserving essential rights” Mr Hay stated. Chamber of Commerce Southland are currently preparing a submission to the select Committee and are seeking input from Southland Business, this is done through a short online questionnaire at wwwcommercesouth.com Ends. For further information contact Richard Hay C.E.O Chamber of Commerce Southland 0274-430072 or 03-218-7188 Printer Friendly Page		Login b heard Overview Media Releases Submissions Surveys Policy Quick Links: Events Calendar Training Calendar Information Zone Young Enterprise Eastern Southland Export/Import Sector Members Area Surveys Site Map Contact Us The Chamber of Commerce recommends Sinuous.net for web design services. Sinuous.net is a southland owned company with offices throughout the south island. Inv: 03 214 9130 Chch: 03 365 2887 www.sinuous.net


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