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Working Life THE PSA JOURNAL DECEMBER 2019 Stand up for library workers Working for free PSA pay survey New Holiday Homes
Get more contents Get more value from 4 President’s Message value from Working Life 5 Obituary: Lynn Middleton Te Mahinga Ora your PSA 6-7 News in Brief THE PSA JOURNAL your PSA 8 Equal Pay Working Life is published quarterly. 9 Stand Up for Library Workers Campaign membership. Views and opinions expressed in Working Life do not necessarily 10 Mana Wahine Claim membership. represent PSA policy. Editor: Jo O'Brien 11 PSA Pay Survey Design & layout: Dan Phillips. Contributors: Kerry Davies, 12 PM’s address to CTU Conference Alastair Reith, Bronte Ammundsen, Kirsten Windelov, Nia Bartley, 13 Fair Pay Agreements Tania Siwatibau, Andrea Fromm, Caleb Gordon 14-15 Public Service Day Awards Printing: Webstar, Masterton. 16-17 Holiday Homes Your union exists to work on your behalf, with all PSA Executive Board PSA members eligible for additional benefits – through Janet Quigley (president), 18 Local Government Your union exists to work on your behalf, with all Kathy Higgins, Kelly Cotter, ‘member-only’ schemes that offer services and value PSA members eligible for additional benefits – through Benedict Ferguson, 19 Pasefika Climate beyond what the for-profit market will provide. Marshall Tangaroa, Lesley Dixon, ‘member-only’ schemes that offer services and value 20 Sector Hui and Māngai Pania Love, Stacey Muir, beyond what isthe One of these for-profit market HeathCarePlus. will provide. Created by unions Megan Barry, Erin Polaczuk, Glenn Barclay, and Kerry Davies. 21 Te Ao Māori for members, it’s a unique type of healthcare that One of these is HeathCarePlus. Created by unions maximises value for you – not profits. Our day-to-day PSA contact details 22 UnionAID Anniversary for members, it’s a unique type of healthcare that PSA, PO Box 3817, Wellington. plans bring genuine benefits through everyday life maximises value for you – not profits. Our day-to-day (not just when someone gets ill) and can leave a typical Freephone 0508 FOR PSA 23 ILO Anniversary plans bring genuine benefits through everyday life (0508 367 772). family better off by hundreds of dollars every year. (not just when someone gets ill) and can leave a typical 24 Health Forums Email enquiries@psa.org.nz. family better off by hundreds of dollars every year. 25 Member Profile: Champion Kickboxer And once you’re a member our value can extend to your family – and last not just for the rest of your 26 Member Profile: GNS Scientist And once you’re a member our value can extend PSA membership, but for the rest of your life. to your family – and last not just for the rest of your 27 Te Reo Column PSA membership, but for the rest of your life. 28 School Strike 4 Climate Pics So find out the difference 29 Around & About Pics that a few dollars a week* So find out the difference could make for you – On the cover 30 Out@psa that a few dollars a week* at healthcareplus.org.nz Rachel Raphael, Susan Heron, and could make for you – Chantalle Smith at the Stand Up for Library Workers campaign launch at healthcareplus.org.nz *Terms & Conditions apply *Terms & Conditions apply www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 3
President's message Equal pay “TELL PEOPLE HOW IT IS Obituary: Lynn Middleton Let’s hope that by this time next year those dates will be closer to FOR YOU” Christmas! Tēnā koutou e te whānau PSA’s first female national secretary and equal pay leader In October I was fortunate to WELL DONE PSA members and staff are and Employment Equity attend the Council of Trade Unions I’d also like to take this deeply saddened by the Taskforce. Conference along with other opportunity to congratulate our recent and sudden death members of the PSA delegation. members and staff who ran in the Lynn was also a founding on November 13 of former local body and DHB elections in member of the Public The address by Prime Minister PSA national secretary October. It takes guts to stand up Service Tripartite Forum, Jacinda Ardern was a time to take Lynn Middleton. for what you believe in so I salute where she successfully stock of all the great things that all your efforts. Lynn played an important advocated for the creation have been accomplished in the last and significant role in the of a public service two years. Congratulations also to all our union movement, working superannuation scheme. These include strengthening union members whose hard work and for NZEI, NZCTU, PSA and industry standards through fair pay Lynn was gregarious and rights, restoring proper breaks for dedication has been recognised in Education International. agreements. fun to work with. She workers, the raising of the minimum the Public Service Day and Spirit So let’s be loud and clear that we of Service Awards in the last few After leaving her role as embraced life and people, wage, the extension of paid parental aren’t up for negotiation on this months. women’s officer at the putting everyone at ease leave, and progress on equal pay important issue! CTU, Lynn became PSA and spreading her warmth claims. Finally I’d like to thank delegates national secretary in 1999. and support. The Prime Minister’s speech WORKING FOR FREE and staff for the huge year we’ve She was the first woman to key leaders throughout the public PSA President Janet along with a recent Facebook post had and the gains we’ve made as a take on that role. On November 18 the PSA and other service. Quigley remembers Lynn as a highlighting this Government’s union which now numbers 75,000 unions marked the date that all New As a member of the newly formed special person who mentored and achievements are reflected in the members. Lynn was a committed feminist Zealand women began working for three person PSA Secretariat until paved the way for other women in positive comments I hear when I and promoted the rights of working free until the end of the year. I wish you all a safe and happy 2004, Lynn led the union into the union movement both here and travel around the country. festive season and hope you get to a period of strong membership women throughout her life. She was a internationally. I have also been thinking about powerful advocate for equal pay and So let’s shake off the negativity enjoy a well-deserved break with growth, growing engagement with our Pasefika sisters who have been We will all miss her dearly. that’s being spun by some. Let’s your families. Government and employers. She pay equity and represented the PSA working for free since the end of celebrate what’s been achieved and formed important relationships with on the Labour-led Government’s Pay National Secretary Kerry Davies September, and our wāhine Māori Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa look ahead to what’s still to do. who have been working for free Working for Free since October 12. Janet Quigley – President, PSA FAIR PAY AGREEMENTS Top of that to do list are fair pay Wellington agreements which would give Women's better pay and protections to some Network Hub From November 18 New Zealand CLOSING THE GAP our Mana Wahine treaty claim is of our most vulnerable workers. hosts Nia Bartley women effectively began working for throwing light on the causes of the (CCDHB), free until the end of the year because The PSA continues to lead the charge pay gap and other employment Chantelle to reduce that pay imbalance. In the last month we’ve been Smith (National of the 11.9% pay gap between men inequities suffered by wāhine Māori, rallying members to respond to a Library), and and women. p.10. Mari North You can read more about our efforts Government discussion document (Wellington City For Pasefika women the statistics are including the launch of a libraries on FPAs. And thanks to your massive response Council) are at campaign, the DHB Admin workers’ even more damning – they’ve been to our first-ever unionwide pay the forefront of I’ve been encouraging our lowest the PSA's fight to working for free since September 29 select committee appearance and survey, we can tell you more about paid members to tell people how it make Working For due to a 25.5% pay gap. donation drive, a new claim for Free dates a thing gender and ethnic pay gaps across is for you. public service admin workers, of the past. The pay gap is almost as dire for the PSA – and how we plan to use and the establishment of regional We need to stop those employers wāhine Māori – a 22.1% pay gap left the survey results to give you pay Women’s Network Hubs on pg. 8-9. who look to exploit them as them working for free since October transparency through a new online cheap labour by setting minimum 12. Research being undertaken for pay tool, p.11. 4 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 5
In the public service, the PSA is working with a number of MORNING TEA TO TAUTOKO employers to resolve Holidays Act compliance problems LIVING WAGE NEWS IN BRIEF that have left thousands of workers short-changed. The PSA acknowledges that some agencies have already rectified the issues, while others are in the process of doing so. Contact your PSA delegate if you have questions regarding NEW ERA FOR PUBLIC SERVICE Many thanks to everyone who shared their views and possible underpayment of your holiday pay. congratulations to the two winners of the supermarket The PSA supports a bill to reform the public vouchers! service which was introduced into Parliament in NEW SCIENCE COMMITTEE LEADERS November. NIWA INDUSTRIAL ACTION The PSA’s National Science Committee has recently We welcome the clarification the bill provides about elected Grant Rennie from AgResearch as the new the role of the public service in relation to the Treaty of convenor and Delia Tamsen from GNS Science as deputy Waitangi. PSA Department of Internal Affairs members at the convenor. We strongly endorse its affirmation that public servants National Library and Ngā Taonga in Wellington held a morning tea during Living Wage Week in November to Grant replaces past President Paula Scholes, while Delia have the same rights as other citizens. show their solidarity for the cleaners and security guards replaces Mark Andersen. We are also keen that the new legislation includes a there who are E tū members. While they’re big shoes to fill, Grant and Delia are up commitment to meeting the Gender Pay Principles, PSA National Library delegate Chantalle Smith said the for the challenge and bring fresh perspective to the which provide a framework for eliminating gender security staff and cleaners are their whānau. Committee. pay gaps and other gender-based inequalities in the workplace. “We don’t think it is right that they are paid so little. They JUSTICE REFORMS The PSA will continue working with Government around work hard and do long hours, and yet they still struggle. details such as the mobility of public servants between We will support these workers until they are paid fairly.” departments, in the hope the new legislation will DIA has now approved the Living Wage for its workers. It’s improve productivity and working conditions. hoped this could assist the campaign for the Living Wage We encourage members to make submissions on the Hundreds of NIWA members across the country walked for the security staff and cleaners. bill or contribute to the submissions of the PSA and Te off the job for two hours on November 21, and refused to Other events for Living Wage Week included the Auckland Rūnanga o Ngā Toa Āwhina. submit timesheets for two weeks. opening of the My Life to Live photographic exhibition During the strike the workers were out in their about refugee workers. ELECTION 2020: WHAT MATTERS communities cleaning up beaches, parks and rivers. Ministry of Justice national delegates met with Justice TO YOU Living Wage Aotearoa is also celebrating its success in Minister Andrew Little at PSA House in Wellington in PSA members have agreed to a proposed 2% pay getting many local government election candidates to October. A lack of affordable housing, healthcare, pay, work and increase, but the PSA believes NIWA's refusal to commit to extending the Living Wage. the cost of living, and climate change are concerns that The PSA has also written a letter to the Minister settle after 16 months is part of a wider approach to are likely to be on your minds in election year. outlining members’ views on Hāpaitia te Oranga undermine the collective employment agreement and HOLIDAYS ACT UNDERPAYMENTS Tangata, the proposed reforms to the justice system. They were the common themes to emerge from a survey union membership. of PSA members in October. The PSA and other unions have agreed a memorandum of understanding with DHBs and the These include the need for more support for mental NIWA has been refusing to allow overtime We asked you what you were most concerned about for Labour Inspectorate on a national process to identify health and addiction issues; general support for people compensation for working unsociable hours, and some your families, your workplaces, your communities and and rectify non-compliance with the Holidays Act. before, during and after incarceration; and the need members say they feel targeted and discriminated for New Zealand – and what you think needs to change. to focus on institutional racism, rehabilitation and against. In October the Health Minister David Clark said prevention. In every general election we speak up for PSA members It was the first industrial action taken by workers at a sampling of payroll records found $550-650 million is and the public and community services you work in. owed to DHB staff due to non-compliance. The letter also states that the PSA and Te Rūnanga o Ngā Crown Research Institute since they were created in Your responses to our survey will contribute to our Toa Awhina expect to be actively involved as a partner in 1992. campaign planning for Election 2020. We’ll update He estimates it will take two years for DHBs to review the reform process. members in the New Year on how you can be involved. and rectify the historic issue. 6 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 7
Equal pay Equal pay Stand up for library workers Kindly leading the way Local government library assistants launched a campaign on November 22 to raise awareness of their equal pay claim and the work they do. to Equal Pay At the launch during the Wellington’s Women's Network Hub event, delegate Chantalle Smith spoke of how research for As women began working for free in New Zealand on November 18, the PSA was their equal pay claim had found the working hard on a number of fronts to close the gender pay gap. skills required to do their job could be broken down into 22 separate PUBLIC SERVICE ADMIN It was a reminder to the DHBs categories. Equal Pay organiser Jo Taylor, DHB that admin staff are still fighting CLAIM admin delegates Nancy McShane and “They include information Jennifer Rankin, and support worker Judy for Equal Pay, and still doing A letter has gone out to chief Robb at Health Committee appearance amazing mahi to help ensure New technology, emotional, social and executives in the public service, ACC Zealanders get the health care they caring, teaching, local and general and Kāinga Ora raising an equal pay need. knowledge, cultural sensitivity, and claim on behalf of PSA members who health and safety.” perform clerical and admin, customer It was also an opportunity to support, and call centre work in those turn their organisational skills to “Everybody loves their agencies. addressing a need in the wider libraries, but we need to make community. sure the salaries of library It’s a significant claim which we hope Stand Up for Library Workers campaign workers reflect the work they committee: Olga Hemmingsen, Jenny will deliver equal pay to about 10,000 of the lowest paid workers in the WOMEN EMPOWERING do.” Merton, Bronwyn Maxwell, Susan Heron, public service, along with ACC and WOMEN Chantelle Smith, and Rachel Raphael Kāinga Ora. EQUAL PAY CLAIM In the same week an event was held to establish a Wellington Women’s UPDATE Their work has historically and is can take to each council to bargain PHOTOGRAPHIC Network Hub. The campaign launch came as for its implementation. currently performed by mainly female EVIDENCE employees – and has historically and action ramps up on the local It was one of a series of Women’s continues to be undervalued. government library assistant’s equal SPRINGBOARD FOR EQUAL As part of efforts to raise Network meetings taking place awareness of the many different around the country to set up pay claim. PAY We’re now awaiting a response from responsibilities of library assistants, employers to the claim. regional hubs. In May this year the PSA notified the While this claim is specificly for local we’re asking members to send in six large urban councils – Auckland, government library assistants the PSA photos of the mahi they do. The hubs will be led by members to HEALTH COMMITTEE “We celebrate the select committee Tauranga, Hamilton, Wellington, also believes all local government increase regional activity on issues So far the photos sent in show APPEARANCE appearance, which was a result of affecting women such as equal pay. Christchurch and Dunedin – that workers in female dominated library workers doing everything the 12,800 signatures we collected occupations may suffer gender-based DHB Admin delegate Nancy McShane we believe local government library from organising kids and teens for our DHB admin petition,” says pay discrimination. spoke to a submission on their equal They will offer an opportunity for assistants suffer from illegal gender- holiday programmes, book pay claim before the Health Select PSA equal pay campaign organiser members to take on leadership based pay discrimination. The claim could also provide a groups, supporting adult literacy Committee, in the same week that Jo Taylor. roles, and grow their confidence platform to achieve equal pay for and numeracy programmes and women began working for free. and skills. A bargaining committee has now library workers in other sectors heritage festival events, to running DHB DONATION DRIVE met with council representatives including the public service. workshops on what to do with your The submission urged that pay Earlier hub meetings were held and is working on Terms of DNA results. increases for DHB admin workers DHB admin workers also brought in Christchurch and Nelson in Our aim is to use equal pay Reference for the claim. be funded to recognise the historic kindness to the equal pay fight by October, while future events are settlements in one occupation or Some of the photos will be posted undervaluation of their skill and organising donations for local food being planned for Dunedin and The aim is to agree on an equal pay sector to achieve equal pay across our on the library workers campaign expertise. banks in the lead-up to Christmas. Auckland. rate for library assistants that we membership. page: psa.org.nz/libraries 8 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 9
Mana Wahine Pay survey ‘Our passion is perceived as a threat’ Stark statistics help fight for equal pay Mana Wahine claim gathers powerful evidence and transparency More than a third of PSA members PSA FEE STRUCTURE you know more about that once the A survey of wāhine Māori in the or 27,291 of you shared your pay analysis is complete. PSA has drawn a fantastic response information with us in our first union- We are also using the survey results - with more than 900 members wide pay survey in September. to model changes to the PSA fee Thanks to everyone who took the time taking the time to tell us about their structure to make it fairer. We’ll let to complete the survey! employment experiences. Your salaries generally reflect the gender and ethnic pay gaps seen in Graph 1: FTE Salary by Ethnicity and Gender The survey was held to help gather the wider workforce with Pākeha men evidence for Te Rūnanga o Ngā Toa well out in front of other groups. (See Āwhina’s Mana Wahine Waitangi graph 1) Pacific Peoples Female Tribunal claim, which challenges treaty breaches that have led to We are starting to analyse the results employment inequities for wāhine. by occupation to support our work to Māori Female achieve equal pay. A clear result emerging from the survey is the high percentage ONLINE PAY Pacific Peoples Male of respondents who reported Mana Wahine claim rōpū: Marcia Puru, Dolly Larkins, Helen Panoho, Sue O’Shea, Tania Te Whenua, TRANSPARENCY TOOL experiencing bias, racism and Marshall Tangaroa, claimants Paula Davis and Georgina Kerr, and Leslie Dixon. (Absent claimant The PSA policy team plans to use the Pākehā Female discrimination at work. Llani Harding) data to create a new online pay tool We’ll have more survey findings which should be available for use by They said systemic bias, racism While New Zealand women Māori Male once our analysis is complete. members only from early next year. and bullying continued into the effectively began working for free About nine members have stated workplace. on November 18 due to a 11.9% pay The tool is an important development they’d like to present their story to gap with men, wāhine Māori have as it will help give members Pākehā Male Others spoke of being labelled too been working for free since October the Waitangi Tribunal, while 75 are transparency around pay rates in their confrontational, strong, difficult, 12 due to a 22.1% pay gap. interested in becoming Kaikōkiri profession, national secretary Glenn assertive or aggressive in the 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Mana Wāhine or advocates, and Barclay says. 0 0 0 0 0 0 ,0 ,0 ,0 workplace. One wahine said her Our own PSA Pay Survey also 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 00 10 20 $7 $4 $5 $6 $8 $9 $1 $1 $1 almost 200 are willing to be ‘passion is often perceived as a reflects the gender and ethnic pay “Without pay transparency people contacted about their responses. threat’. gaps in the wider workforce. (see negotiating their pay are on an uneven Graph 2: FTE Salary distribution sample respondents next page) footing with their employer. It allows The claimants would like to thank PSA Kaiwhakarite Māori Marcia 3000 all those who participated in the pay inequities to continue and grow. Puru says the kōrero was often “The numbers remain terrible for survey. “emotional” but the strength of the Māori and Pasefika women,” says 2500 Median “There is very little transparency in wāhine in overcoming barriers also PSA organiser Dolly Larkins. New Zealand around rates of pay KŌRERO AT HUI shone through. for different occupations. We aim to 2000 “We need to get some hits on the Responses Heartfelt kōrero from wāhine use the survey to make this kind of The kōrero from the hui will provide board. Let’s hope this claim helps us Māori about the injustices they’ve information available to you in an 1500 further evidence for our Treaty to do that.” experienced were also heard during ongoing way.” claim. this year’s sector hui. The claimants expect to hear more 1000 SHOCKING STATISTICS about a hearing date in April. AVERAGE SALARY Wāhine at the hui spoke of how the 500 education system had failed them They’re moving into full campaign Initial analysis of the data shows the As work progresses on the claim, through bias, segregation, a lack mode with the development of average full-time equivalent salary for new statistics are emerging about 0 branding, and plans to hold a stall PSA members is $66,482, while the $0 $50,000 $100,000 $150,000 $200,000 $250,000 $300,000 of Te Ao Māori in schools and of the persistence of the pay gap for at Waitangi in February. median is $61,000. (See graph 2) encouragement to achieve. wāhine Māori. Annual FTE Salary 10 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 11
Industrial relations Industrial relations Fair Pay Agreements will give workers a fairer deal The PSA and other unions believe Fair Pay Agreements will offer a fairer deal for many of this country’s most vulnerable workers. That’s why we’ve made a submission on the Government’s new discussion document on FPAs and have been encouraging members to make sure their voices are heard. This Government has stated its “We are delivering, but we have so much commitment to improving the well- being of all New Zealanders. more to deliver” Economic studies commissioned by PSA delegation at CTU conference the Council of Trade Unions have found a return to sector bargaining develop co-ordinated industry-wide company, makes it harder than it in the form of FPAs is the most strategies for training and workforce should be to protect the pay and The CTU Biennial conference in October was an opportunity to reflect on the effective thing it could do to achieve development. conditions of workers. significant gains made for working people during the Government’s first two years that. Fair Pay Agreements will ensure no in power - and to challenge it to go further. NO MORE RACE TO THE worker is left behind. WHAT ARE FAIR PAY BOTTOM In her speech to the conference, leave to six months, and introducing health and addiction workers. AGREEMENTS? Currently low wages and insecure HOW WILL THIS Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern spoke domestic violence leave to support Currently too many New Zealanders conditions are the norm for AFFECT PUBLIC SERVICE of her Government’s achievements. those escaping it. MORE TO DELIVER endure poor working conditions cleaners, security guards and WORKERS? They include the lowest rate of She said the Government had The Prime Minister acknowledged in jobs that don’t pay enough and supermarket workers, so these are offer few opportunities for career The first areas where FPAs will be unemployment in 11 years and the made changes to the Employment the frustration of those who believe the first groups proposed to be progression. trialled are in the private sector, but creation of 92,000 new jobs. Relations Act to “give voice to the the Government should be doing covered by FPAs. the introduction of these laws will greatest asset we have, our workforce more, faster. FPAs will set minimum employment benefit all workers. In April this year a $1.20 increase Some of these workers have and our people”. The changes make standards that will apply to all to the minimum wage put the She said work is continuing to update organised to win improved pay it easier for workers to know about workers in an industry. FPAs are proposed to apply to Government on track to meet its goal pay equity legislation and to progress and conditions, but the companies and join their union, and strengthen contractors as well as permanent of lifting the minimum to $20 an collective bargaining and union equal pay claims, and that Fair Pay Early in January a working group led they work for must then compete employees. hour by 2021. rights. Agreements are “part of the longer by former Prime Minister Jim Bolger for contracts with non-unionised term solution for those ... in the low recommended that bargaining for companies. In many government departments, “With more jobs and better wages Other gains include the largest pay wage economy”. there is a second-tier workforce FPAs should begin when called for By establishing consistent we’re seeing real improvement in increases in a decade for nurses by either 1000 workers or 10% of made up of contractors and workers New Zealanders’ wallets,” the Prime and teachers, along with significant But she said challenges caused by standards for pay, breaks, hours and from labour-hire companies. workers in an industry. Minister said. investment in the mental health years of neglect under National safety practices, FPAs will prevent workforce. require more than a quick fix. Employers, government and unscrupulous employers from It is a priority of our union to end this situation. Everyone deserves WORKERS’ RIGHTS “We need to stay in Government unions would then negotiate terms undercutting employers that treat On the equal pay front a claim for covering every workplace within workers better. equal pay for equal work, and public Jacinda Ardern also highlighted Oranga Tamariki social workers has long enough to ensure these policies sector employers have for too long that industry, regardless of whether measures including restoring the seen them gain pay increases of up stick and prove their worth... We are Unions have limited resources, and used contractors and temping workers are union members or not. right to reasonable meal and rest to 30%, while the care and support delivering, but we have so much having to fight the same battles agencies to try and undermine our breaks, extending paid parental settlement was extended to mental more to deliver.” They would also work together to over and over again, company by collective agreements. 12 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 13
Public Service Public Service young people so she can find the the Manukau District Court. have to be flexible and adaptable right employment opportunities and rely on their local networks and for them. She got a young man The service helps people affected by relationships to get things done. who was headed for prison onto a family violence to get the support course and supported him through they need. MSD assistant service centre to graduation, so he now has very manager Firoza Shaikh With six decades of frontline service different prospects. between them, Jacqui and Tiana (who Earlier this year Brittnee builds relationships with is not a PSA member) bring strong Firoza supported employers, encouraging them to give cultural understanding to their work the Muslim young people a chance. She’s helped with Tangata Whenua and Tangata community in place them in the Police, Defence, Pacifica. Christchurch and hospitals, hotels, call centres, her colleagues in They also provide a weekly clinic the wake of the construction, security and traffic servicing the New Zealand Prostitute Honours for workers on frontline management roles. terror attacks. Collective, working with transgender, Inland Revenue customer takatapui and sex workers. Her compassion and empathy compliance specialist Rochelle enabled her team to work in different The pair help Auckland’s most ways to make sure the people of Bouterey PSA members were to the fore as the Public Service Day awards vulnerable people to navigate the Christchurch got the support they social support system in a way that were announced in November. Rochelle is takes away fear and uncertainty. needed. committed to The inaugural Public Service Day – Te Rā Kāwanatanga was held last reputation for exceptional customer service, and has brought experience During 19 years of public service, she has shown the ability to earn trust ensuring New Zealanders have Corrections probation officers These women bring Georgina Delamere and Penni Gray year so this is the second year the and expertise to a range of national and respect and to build enduring trust and awards have been handed out. projects. relationships with communities. confidence in our We’re proud of all our members Her spirit of service extends well She’s passionate about her work, tax system, and works to ensure it is fair, efficient, and effective. the values who received Public Service Medals or State Services Commissioner’s beyond the workplace. in particular, supporting the development of young Pacific Her investigation into suspected of kaitiaki, manaaki, Commendations for Frontline Maree helped bring an educational leaders. She is known for creating multi-million dollar income Excellence. initiative for young people and a safe space for Pacific voices to be suppression by a restaurant chain rangatira, repeat offenders with serious nurtured and heard. led to one of the most significant “It’s well-earned recognition of the driving offences to Southland. Her prosecution cases undertaken by IR Georgie and Penni are helping create wairua, and amazing mahi they do to improve the commitment extended to working FRONTLINE EXCELLENCE in the past decade. safer communities on the isolated lives of their fellow New Zealanders,” evenings and weekends with COMMENDATION East Coast, which has historically whānau to says PSA national secretary Glenn offenders to make a positive impact Rochelle displays the highest Barclay. in their lives. RECIPIENTS standards of integrity, and inspires been difficult for the Department of Corrections to service. their everyday MSD national limited service everyone she works with. Ministry for Pacific Peoples PUBLIC SERVICE MEDAL volunteer coordinator Brittnee Each week they travel 240 kilometres southern regional partnerships MSD case managers Jacqui Karena RECIPIENTS Ministry of Justice court services director Diane Fenika O’Brien and Tiana Timoteo from Ōpōtiki to Potaka and back, working with communities, whānau practice.” Each year Britnee and external stakeholders to develop Diane works manager Maree Hayes helps 400 young tirelessly to a “korowai o manaaki” (wrap around Firoza has now returned to her role people through support) to people in predominantly in Auckland, where she continues to For 43 years, ensure the the Limited small Māori communities. support the victims and families who Maree has been perspectives of Service Volunteer have moved up there. putting people South Island course, which These women bring the values of first. Pacific builds their confidence and Jacqui and Tiana manage kaitiaki, manaaki, rangatira, wairua, Her exceptional service in communities are As an Invercargill motivation as they enter the the Community Link in Courts and whānau to their everyday extraordinary circumstances has reflected in the courts employee, workforce or training. service at the Auckland District Court practice. made a genuine positive difference in design and implementation of she has a and helped establish the service at the victims’ lives. programmes affecting Pacific people. She works to get to know the Often working in isolation, they 14 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 15
happyholidays PSA Plus PSA Plus Mangawhai Heads, Northland Whitianga, CBD, Coromandel As our thoughts turn to sand, sea and summer holidays some members will be Auckland looking forward to a welcome break at our PSA holiday homes. This summer we’re pleased to be able to offer two new accommodation options in Whitianga and Mangawhai Heads. WHITIANGA Rotorua, Our new Whitianga holiday Bay of Plenty apartments were already booked up for months by time they opened on Labour Weekend following an official Ohakune, blessing from Rūnanga Kaumātua Central Plateau Kiwhare Mihaka. HOT DEMAND Visitors to the two new 2-bedroom units at the Marina Park apartments Our 44 holiday homes and apartments can enjoy facilities including a heated in ten locations are running at 80% outdoor swimming pool, spa and occupancy rates with members crying gym. out for more. Raumati Beach, Kapiti Coast The apartments are conveniently We receive a lot of positive feedback Stoke, located close to the town centre from members, who often find them Nelson and can be a hub to explore the value for money compared to motels Carters Beach, HOLIDAY SNAP and hotels. stunning beaches, hot pools, arts and West Coast COMPETITION culinary delights of the Coromandel With While our rates currently range from Currently Every year members make magic memories Peninsula. a surf beach and a safe estuary for an affordable $58-155 a night, there we keep rates low for members by at our holiday homes and we’re keen to swimming, scenic coastal and bush will be small rate increases of about share that with you in Working Life. MANGAWHAI HEADS walks, a thriving artistic community asking you to bring your own linen $6 a night in most locations from and clean the units at most locations So if you take a memorable snap at one of A brand new 3-bedroom home in and a host of other activities, April next year. before departure. But over the years our homes this summer send it to us at Mangawhai Heads is opening in mid- Mangawhai offers something for we’ve found more members are not plus@psa.org.nz with your name and December. Featuring a large open plan everybody. complying with this requirement. holiday home you stayed at and go in kitchen/dining/lounge area, a family the draw to win a Logitech Ultimate Ears bathroom and luxury ensuite, a games HOLIDAY HOME SURVEY So earlier this year we conducted Otematata, Megaboom 3 valued at over $300. Entries room, lots of large windows, and front The PSA holiday homes are member- a survey to find out how you’d like North Otago close 1 February 2020. and back decks – its truly set up for them maintained. the whole family all year round. owned and managed by us on your Lake Te Anau, With our homes all snapped up for the behalf. The results indicate many members Fiordland summer period in our annual ballot all that’s Just under 100 kms from Auckland’s would like to have the option of left to do is to wish you all a Merry Xmas and CBD, this spectacular spot is a world As such it’s the responsibility of each hiring linen and paying for a cleaning a fantastic and well-earned holiday! away from the hustle and bustle of the member who stays at a home to look service, so we are endeavouring to city. after it for those who come after. make that happen. Nā the PSA Plus team 16 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 17
Local government Pasefika PSAY Hui Inspires Success “We must change our practices of Inspirational speeches at this year’s PSA Youth Hui have propelled Elvisa Van Der ignorance and neglect” Leden into a seat at the council table. The PSA proudly supported the School Strike for Climate in September. For some After joining the PSA earlier educator, and the Living of our Pasefika members the effects of climate change are already hitting home. this year, the DOC worker Wage for council contractors. decided to attend the PSAY They tell us why they took part in the rally on Parliament. Hui in August. CONGRATULATIONS A SOUTH PACIFIC “I went along just to learn The PSA congratulates Elvisa and other PSA members who ISLANDER’S PERSPECTIVE but I was really inspired by everybody who was there,” stood in local government Tania Siwatibau – Ministry of Health Elvisa says. and DHB elections in delegate, Pasefika Network Eco Rep October. PSA members Darren Most of my younger years were spent Bleyenga, Nia Bartley, Speakers including Green MP and Tania Siwatibau Chlöe Swarbrick made a big Other successes include the growing up in and visiting South return to Wellington City Pacific islands. impression on the 28 year- Council of PSA lawyer Fleur old. PSA member and councillor Elvisa Van Der Leden with Green Fitzsimons, the election of I was born in Fiji, lived in Vanuatu Party MP Chlöe Swarbrick “Just going for it. Normalising PSA member Nicole Marshall and visited Solomon Islands and New young people standing for time round was humbling.” to Environment Canterbury, Caledonia. These islands will always office was a big theme that I took and members Andrew Shaw and have a special place in my heart, so it from it.” She says she always got a laugh at Cindy Schmidt to the Kaipātiki Local is sad to see the plight they face as a election forums when she described Board, Auckland Council. Former result of climate change, particularly So much so she threw her hat in herself as a half-Filipino half-Irish PSA member Zoe Brownlie was Fiji and Solomon Islands. the ring for a seat on the Taranaki woman married to a Dutch-Māori, re-elected to the Auckland District Regional Council – and just a few but now she believes she brings a With rising sea levels and Health Board. Pasefika marchers months later was sworn into office. fresh perspective to the council. temperatures, comes the We also thank candidates for disappearance of settlements in low are made to be more dependent on Tuvalu and Uvea. For decades our Elvisa says it took a while for the She hopes to promote the use of promoting issues like the Living lying coastal areas as well as more others. people have stated global warming significance of her victory to sink in. social media to educate her peers, Wage, equal pay, and better public frequent devastating tropical storms. was an issue. Dismissed and ignored “Especially for a young, multi-ethnic marine issues which are close to her and health services during the Being displaced from coastal areas HOPE FOR MY ANCESTRAL by big corporations and bigger woman to get into that position first heart as a part-time environmental campaign. means a loss of livelihood as many LANDS nations that thought it was all hype. rely on fishing for earnings and Nia Bartley, Capital & Coast DHB Now people are waking up to the sad Tauranga council members strike to resolve pay dispute sustenance. It also means they lose delegate, Women's Network Eco reality that the world as we knew it is the land they own. No food, no money, Rep changing and has changed. Sea life no land. Strike action at Tauranga City As Working Life went to print “It was after the industrial action is dying because the waters are too Being a born and bred Kiwi, heading warm. Council in October may have members were considering an that the employer realised how More storms cause more frequent to the beach during summer was the helped bring resolution closer to improved offer from their employer. serious we were about getting it damage to livelihoods, homes and norm. The beautiful and glistening Many peoples will be displaced a dispute over the council’s salary sorted,” he says. infrastructure. How many times can a moana beckoning us to enjoy because their homes, their land, their system. Delegate Peter Mora says so far there person bounce back if they don’t have the soothing, salty water, with its fenua if not already, will disappear. has been a “positive response” from resources and money to recover each provisions of kaimoana a bonus. Pacific cultures and their beautiful PSA members at the council went members overall to the offer which time? way of life changed forever. on strike for two hours on October came after mediation with MBIE. Climate change is very real, current The reality is this very sea water, 24 in frustration over a system that and damaging to Pacific Islanders. because of the climate change crisis, Collectively, we must change our leaves some languishing on pay up But he says they still need to work It will leave them with no home, no has caused havoc to the islands of practices of ignorance and neglect to 10 percent less than the median through the implications for all 120 earnings, and loss of identity, self- my ancestors throughout the Pacific and save our planet before it is too rate for years. members. determination and self-esteem as they especially low-lying islands Tokelau, late. 18 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 19
Te Rūnanga Te Ao Māori Reducing Māori Health Inequities Appearing before the Māori service reforms to provide Affairs Select Committee PSA policy advisor Andrea Fromm, Allan Franks, Te Rūnanga better strategies. Kuia Georgina Kerr and Kaumātua Kiwhare Mihaka to speak to the Inquiry into Health Inequities for Māori These include the rollout was “awe-inspiring” for into workplaces of ‘Ngā Allan Franks. Kaupapa i Tuku Ihoa’, Te Rūnanga O Ngā Toa Āwhina’s The convenor of Te Tira best practice framework for Hauora Kōmiti, a committee Tikanga Māori behaviours. of Māori delegates across “We believe this will help the DHB sector, presented reduce inequities and their submission to the improve outcomes for inquiry in November. whānau,” says Allan. “They include institutional racism “It was an honour to present in our workplaces, the effects of The submission also calls for better the submission on behalf of our colonisation, the lack of resources, visibility of Te Tirīti o Waitangi, ring- members, the delegates who attended PSA’s Hui Hauora at poor recruitment of Maori staff, fencing funding for Māori health, “It opens their eyes”: Orongomai Marae in September, and poor support for Kaupapa Maori, robust management of institutional especially our whānau maha who and the failure to value matauranga racism, and consideration quantify the inequities. Their kōrero Māori,” Allan says. being given to making cultural Sector Māngai elected at Hui at the hui formed the basis for our submission,” Allan says. A VOICE FOR KAIMAHI competencies mandatory. As a result of the submission a The submission acknowledges The submission calls for the PSA meeting is being organised between There’s a mix of old and new on everything from public service Allan Franks, Virgil Iraia, Lesley factors contributing to the and Te Tira Hauora Kōmiti to be a delegation from Te Rūnanga and amongst the Sector Māngai reforms, to mental health and te reo Dixon, Thereza Clark, Corina persistence of health inequities. involved in the co-design of health Labour’s Māori caucus. elected at Public Sector, DHB and revitalisation. Alipate, Andrea Jerry, Pamela Combined sector hui in August and McCullough, Natasha Hohaia September. But alongside that, the hui enabled delegates to share ideas Kāwanatanga-ā-Rohe - Local ‘It’s important to have Māori and female voices at the table’ Their role is to organise and and experiences and to go away Government: Sally Simpson, From small town Aotearoa to the says it was also a great opportunity for advocate for Māori members in invigorated and inspired. Joy Benioni, Kevin Thompson, United Nations – it’s been a big year professional development. their sectors. They also represent Reremoana Sinclair “It opens their eyes to see that it’s for one PSA member from Te Puni their sectors on Te Kōmiti o Te Kokiri. “Te Puni Kōkiri is keen to make not just about my workplace. We all Rātonga Mahi ā te Kāwanatanga Rūnanga o Ngā Toa Awhina and on - Public Service: Priscilla Benioni, these kinds of experiences have common issues,” Marcia says. sector committees. Paula Davis, Pere Paul, Marshall Staff from the Ministry’s policy accessible to as many people as “It is huge for engaging delegates, Tangaroa teams have attended UN indigenous “It’s a very important role so it’s possible. It’s important to have building whanaungatanga, rights forums in Geneva and New Erin Keenan great to see fresh faces coming Rāngai Tūmatanui - State Sector: Māori and female voices at the kotahitanga and rangatiratanga.” York. forward, while we’ve retained some Alby Marsh, Susan Young, Gail to hear about New Zealand as we table.” experienced hands too,” says PSA For policy manager Erin Keenan are unique in having Te Tiriti and SECTOR MĀNGAI: Arthur, Melanian Brown acknowledging there are areas that Erin, from Te Ātiawa ki Taranaki, Kaiwhakarite Māori Marcia Puru. who grew up near Palmerston North Rangatahi reps were also elected at Rātonga Mahi ā Hāpori - RANGATAHI REPS: it’s been an opportunity to become a need improvement. says it’s also important to convey the hui. Community Public Services: “global citizen”. the real life experiences of whānau Christine Hawea, Violet Slade, CPS Simone Best, DHB Jazemine CONVEYING MĀORI to forums such as the United Murray, Local Government Leila SHARING IDEAS Mahana Paerata, Pania Love, “It’s a chance to learn from others EXPERIENCE Nations, and to bring back the Elizabeth Wichman Bailey-Moore, Public Service and help others to learn from us.” The hui also covered a range of Rireana Kirkwood, State Sector Erin spoke at the forums and ideas that are gained to make a issues with speakers and workshops Te Pōari Hauora ā Rohe - DHB: Lance Westrupp Erin says other countries are keen participated in bilateral meetings. She meaningful difference for Māori. 20 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 21
International Celebrating 10 years 100 Years On - Labour is still UnionAID is the New Zealand union movement’s international development charity. As our 10th anniversary draws to a close we’d like to thank all those who have supported us during that time. not a Commodity That includes the PSA which is donating $3,000 a year for the next ten years. Nā Andrea Fromm PSA Policy It underlines the importance of You can find out more about our work and how to donate at unionaid.org.nz Advisor taking a human-centred approach. Technology needs to benefit human The 100th anniversary of the beings - not the other way around. International Labour Organisation What UnionAID does this year is a timely reminder “Today, more than ever, decent work opportunities for all are the key to inclusion, social justice, stability and peace. The declaration also promotes of its continued relevance. Its In a world of work undergoing transformative change, Governments, Workers and Employers must come together workers’ rights as key to achieving Around the world 300 million working people to build the future of work we want.” constitution still strikes a chord Guy Ryder, ILO Director-General inclusive growth, and the live with their families on less than $2 a day. for those of us fighting for workers’ International Labour Organization importance of the public sector. The UnionAID tackles the causes of poverty by helping working people get rights: Department of Communication and Public Information 4, route des Morillons declaration recognises contractors organised to collectively stand up for their CH-1211 Geneva 22 Switzerland Whereas universal and lasting Tel: +41 22 799 79 12 INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANIZATION and self-employed people must rights and better wages. Fax: +41 22 799 85 77 THE UN AGENCY FOR THE WORLD OF WORK Email: communication@ilo.org enjoy adequate protection like all Visit: www.ilo.org peace can be established only if Follow us: We partner with unions in developing countries to provide it is based upon social justice; other workers. decolonisation, the creation of labour rights education, skills training, advocacy, collective And whereas conditions of Solidarność in Poland, the victory bargaining and establish worker led co-ops. labour exist involving such 148x210_ILO100_Leaflet_EN.indd 4-1 over apartheid in South Africa. 20.02.19 14:15 SIGNIFICANCE FOR NZ injustice, hardship and privation This change is funded by the solidarity donations of New This Declaration was adopted by Zealanders who believe in social justice and better to large numbers of people as Each year the NZ Council of the New Zealand government, work for a better world. to produce unrest so great that Trade Unions participates in the peace and harmony of the its employer and union ILO conferences, which adopt world are imperilled; and an representatives. It therefore guides international labour standards. improvement of those conditions our goals, work relationships, They are a crucial building block Achievements over the last 10 years is urgently required; … by the towards achieving fair globalisation, and negotiations in this country. The PSA is also supporting a CTU regulation of the hours of work, which delivers social justice and Call centre workers in the Philippines Railway Workers Union members in Garment workers in Fiji increased … the provision of an adequate lasting peace. campaign for New Zealand to ratify successfully campaigned for health Myanmar bargained for secure jobs their minimum wage by 19% following living wage, the protection of ILO convention 87, which sets out and safety law changes after a deadly with decent wages for over 1,000 a campaign by our union partners. the worker against sickness, In 1999 the ILO proposed the decent the rights of unions to exist and workplace fire. casual staff. disease and injury arising out of work agenda, which encompasses organise, and Convention 151 which his employment, the protection the creation of employment, extends union rights to public of children, young persons and respect and fulfilment of rights at service workers. women, provision for old age work, ensuring social security, and $ and injury, … recognition of the principle of equal remuneration negotiation between unions and employers. We would also like this country to put into practice the protections for work of equal value… in a new ILO convention, which FUTURE OF WORK recognises that violence and In 1944, the Philadelphia Twenty years on a landmark harassment at work are human Declaration confirmed the vision report entitled ‘Work for a rights violations. Over of the ILO in a few simple words: Brighter Future’, addresses today’s Labour is not a commodity. Although 100 years old, the ILO is challenges to decent work including unprecedented transformational not a lame duck but a grand dame CONTINUING INFLUENCE and technological change. This able to influence the world of work, Since then the organisation has year’s annual ILO conference yet relying on all of us to make played a role at key historical adopted the Centenary Declaration decent work a reality in the 21st Dalit workers in India have formed Nearly 2,000 migrant women from Myanmar have had skills junctures – the Great Depression, for the Future of Work. century. their own worker led co-operatives and training and labour rights education and gone onto find doubled their incomes. decent work in Thailand safe from human trafficking. www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 23
Health Member profile Your voice, our system The PSA is hosting regional and and Addiction, closely followed by a Several new mental health initiatives online health forums in December to $1.9 billion mental health package in have already begun making headway. give members another opportunity this year’s budget. These include a $6m pilot programme to have their say in the reshaping of As the Government has been giving 22 general practices and services. implementing changes, the PSA has kaupapa Māori providers funding to The forums will focus on mental been working to ensure our members place trained mental health workers health & addiction services, Māori who will be delivering transformed into primary health services such health inequities, and disability mental healthcare are represented in as doctors’ clinics and iwi health services. the redesign of services. providers. Members are invited to propose We’ve been meeting regularly with The Government’s suicide prevention solutions from a worker perspective Deputy Director-General of Mental strategy has identified national to failures that have been identified in Health & Addiction Robyn Shearer, leadership, using evidence, workforce the system. while PSA representatives have also development, and evaluation and met with the MHA Directorate to monitoring, as keys to building a The forums are in Wellington on discuss the struggling state of crisis strong system that supports wellbeing December 2, Christchurch December teams. and responds to people’s needs 3, and Auckland December 6. As a result of this crisis team An initial Mental Health Commission Fearsome fighter delegates will soon be invited to has been announced to help establish ENSURING WORKER VOICE gather workforce experiences and a permanent commission in February The forums come six months after ideas to report back to the Ministry of 2021. The Commission will track the the Government released its response Health. Government’s progress on actions to to He Ara Oranga: Report of the improve mental healthcare, reporting PSA delegate Kelly Broerse says “It’s a really big achievement fighting are involved in finding the truth.” Government Inquiry in Mental Health EARLY INITIATIVES back to the Minister of Health. her colleagues at the Institute of for a world title. But I’m most proud Kelly says her workmates make jokes Environmental Science and Research of actually getting in the ring. The (ESR) in Auckland are used to her anxiety when you are waiting to get about ‘keeping her hands up’ when showing up at work with black eyes in there with someone who wants to they see her fight wounds – but and bruises. smash you is insane,” Kelly says. they are also extremely supportive, attending fights or watching them on That’s because when she’s not Muay Thai boxing is a stand-up You Tube. involved in a tough round of form of martial arts and Kelly says negotiations, or doing her day job as it’s attracting a growing number of In turn, Kelly has shown her support a forensic technician, Kelly is likely to female fighters in New Zealand for her colleagues in her role as a be found in the Muay Thai kickboxing delegate. ring. She says a competitive nature has Getting workers home safe and healthy helped her succeed in the ring, along “I’ve been on the negotiating team She has an impressive record of 14 with a strong work ethic. this year and have been involved in wins from 17 fights, and currently restructuring. So sometimes we are WorksafeReps is owned and operated by the Workers Education Trust, holds one New Zealand and two DREAM JOB the middle men during all of that established by the PPTA, PSA, RMTU, NZNO, DWU and the NZCTU South Pacific titles. which can be challenging. Kelly brings the same determination to provide education courses in health and safety at work. to succeed to her “dream job”, WORLD TITLE FIGHT processing DNA crime samples from “But it’s also been great for my personal and professional growth, Kelly also fought unsuccessfully for all over New Zealand. To book a course, or for more information: helping to develop my confidence an amateur world title in Brisbane in “It’s not glamorous, my team doesn’t in dealing with issues, and public September. www.worksafereps.co.nz 0800 336 966 Not bad for a woman who got into the attend crime scenes. But while the police and other teams are the speaking. And it’s been a great insight into ESR and other parts of our sport just to keep fit. frontline, it’s rewarding to know we business.” 24 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 www.psa.org.nz Working Life December 2019 25
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