Employers need to speak up on important changes to Holidays Act

The Holidays Act is one of the biggest employment compliance headaches, and it is important employers get involved in changes to it, says David Lowe, Employment Services Manager for the Northern Employers and Manufacturers Association.

“It’s really important employers and businesses have their say on the changes planned for the Holidays Act,” Mr Lowe said.

“The Act consistently rates as one of the most problematic employment areas – our AdviceLine receives over 100 calls a week about it. (5,331 calls in the past 12 months)

“Previous attempts to make the law simpler have assumed everybody works the same hours each week and takes their holidays in blocks of a week or so. But these assumptions are out-dated.

“No two workplaces are the same. Another one-size fits all solution won’t work. Businesses need a workable system for their workplace that can also be applied to each and every other workplace.

“Submissions close on 21 August 2009 and should be sent to the ERconsultation@dol.govt.nz.

“Or employers can email their views to EMA at HolidaysActReview@ema.co.nz and we will include them in our submission.

“More information is available at www.ema.co.nz/HolidaysActReview.”