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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