Supreme Court gives go-ahead to fair pay case

Respite carers fighting for a fair wage will have their case heard at New Zealand's highest court.

The highest court in New Zealand has confirmed it will hear an appeal over the controversial decision to deny respite care workers minimum wage.

Last year, former carer Jan Lowe lodged a claim with the Employment Court, insisting she and other relief workers should be entitled to more than a $75 subsidy for a 24-hour shift.

The Employment Court agreed and ruled that Lowe should receive minimum wage as well as holiday pay and other basic employment rights. The case set a precedent for 35,000 others care workers with similar employment condition.

However, in August of this year, the Employment Court overturned the decision following an appeal but the Ministry of Health and the Capital and Coast DHB.

At the time, major union E tū promised to fight the decision and this week it received confirmation that the case would be heard by the Supreme Court.

“This is a major public policy issue,” says John Ryall, E tū’s assistant national secretary. “These workers do a great job and they’re paid just $3.00 an hour. Someone has got to sort it – either the government or the courts.”

According to Ryall, the case is likely to be heard early next year.

Recent stories:

Workplace bullying prompts $30K pay out

How employee engagement differs by gender

Dress codes: Why HR has to get it right
 

Recent articles & video

ERA calls company director's daughter 'employee'

Upton admits brain drain 'possibility' for New Zealand

What NZ employers need to consider before implementing a living wage

Which countries hired the most expats in 2023?

Most Read Articles

Company blocks former worker's employment with competitor

Unjustified dismissal: technician who didn't have enough work wins over $20,000

Employer assigns manager to smaller area – is it constructive dismissal?