January, 2005

Extending paid parental leave to one year would be a major benefit to women workers, particularly those on low incomes who needed to take time off to care for children, Council of Trade Unions vice-president Helen Kelly said today.

Round-up of economic news, information and issues by CTU economist Peter Conway. Link to CTU Economic Bulletin No. 55

Reported plans by the Government to further increase childcare support would improve work opportunities for thousands of women, Council of Trade Unions vice-president Helen Kelly said today.

National Party leader Don Brash has revealed that he is more interested in attacking those on low incomes than in looking at opportunities to move people into decent, secure work, Council of Trade Unions secretary Carol Beaumont said today.

The death of long-serving trade unionist Bill Andersen is a huge loss to the union movement, Council of Trade Unions secretary Carol Beaumont said today. Bill Andersen, who at 81 was still serving as president of the National Distribution Union, died yesterday in Auckland following a heart attack.

"Unionists around the country feel great sadness at Bill's death," Carol Beaumont said. "He was at times a controversial figure but widely respected for his unfailing support and commitment to working people and the union movement."

Bill Andersen was involved in the 1951 waterfront dispute and was secretary of the Northern Drivers Union for almost 30 years. He was active in the former Federation of Labour and the Council of Trade Unions until his death.

"Most people saw him as a fighter but he was also incredibly kind and had a great sense of humour," Carol Beaumont said. "We will miss him greatly."