Assignment - Back to the Future

In 2000 the Employment Relations Act was passed into law in New Zealand, replacing the Employment Contracts Act. The bill proved controversial: some suggested it placed unfair obligations on employers, while others claimed it restored much-needed rights to workers that had been undermined. This Assignment episode explores both angles. Among them, business owner John Holm argues that he shouldn’t be told how to treat his employees, while union leaders and Alliance Party MP Laila Harré all argue that without the bill, workers will continue to be exploited.

I think it's justifiable payback. A temporary majority in the house of representatives gave National the power. They didn't listen to anybody who said you've gone too far, these provisions are too draconian, this is unfair legislation, this grossly advantages employers vis-a-vis unions. They didn't care. They said we've got the numbers, tough. Well, now we've got the numbers. Tough.

– Political commentator Chris Trotter, on replacing National's Employment Contracts Act

Key Cast & Crew

Chris Harrington

Director

Jackie Maher

Reporter

Dan Best

Sound Mix, Editor

Paul Maunder

Additional Footage

Phil Wallington

Executive Producer

John Gillespie

Associate Producer