[Greens-Media] Barnett should exercise caution on industrial relations reforms: Greens

[Norton, Tim (Sen R. Siewert)]

Barnett should exercise caution on industrial relations reforms: Greens
Tuesday 11th November 2008

The Australian Greens today voiced their concerns over the future state
of industrial relations in Western Australia, after comments from WA
Treasurer Troy Buswell that the state system would be overhauled.

"This call from the new Liberal leadership in WA is a purely political
reaction to the proposed industrial relations changes at a federal
level. What is needed is considered debate and consultation with all
involved, not political points scoring," said Australian Greens
spokesperson on industrial relations Senator Rachel Siewert.

"Whilst the Greens have deep concerns with the ALP's current approach to
worker's rights, what we don't want to see in WA is an industrial
relations system that offers less protection than the federal 'Forward
with Fairness' system."

"It is very concerning that the direction of industrial relations in WA
could revert back to the dark days of employment conditions under the
Court Government."

"The Greens believe that workplace laws should be fair, protect all
workers from unjust treatment, promote industrial harmony and enable us
to organise collectively to negotiate fair pay and conditions," said
Senator Siewert.

"I can promise Premier Barnett that Federal and WA Greens will subject
any changes to close scrutiny, ensuring it protects the rights and
responsibilities that provide dignity and a decent standard of living to
all Western Australian workers," she concluded.

For more information or media enquiries please call Tim Norton on 0418
401 180
senator.siewert at aph.gov.au  |  www.rachelsiewert.org.au  |
www.greensmps.org.au