PSA calling on MPs to sign pledge against Employment Leave bill w/ Public Service Association National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons - 16th March, 2026

Last Thursday, the Employment Leave bill, which aims to replace the Holidays Act, passed its first reading in Parliament. The bill will reform annual and sick leave calculation, changing from a lump sum system, to an hourly calculation scheme.

While New Zealand workplace relations and safety Minister, Brooke van Velden claimed the bill is meant to simplify leave calculations, criticisms of the bill's other potential impacts have emerged.

Those who work irregular hours will receive less leave, it's been proposed a full day in lieu won’t be provided for people working shorter shifts on public holidays, and leave for people on ACC compensation would be cut.

In response the Public Service Association has called on MPs to sign a pledge to oppose the law change and ensure workers aren’t left worse off.

To explain this pledge and why the PSA opposes the changes in the bill, producer Thomas talked to PSA National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons.