Podcasts about employment court

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024. For over 50 years, the secretive Christian community of Gloriavale has fascinated New Zealanders. While the community has long been discussed by former members who have left Gloriavale behind, in the last few years, multiple official investigations and Employment Court proceedings have shone more light on what's happening behind the scenes. In March, a new TVNZ documentary, Escaping Utopia, premiered, looking back at the community’s chequered history and its recent problems. We spoke with co-director Justin Pemberton – who explained his fresh look at historic concerns. New episodes return January 13th. Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's Thursday Wire, we reflect on our favourite interviews from 2024 as we wrap up our reporting for the year. In May, Wire Host Caeden spoke to Yale University student Andre Fa'aoso and University of Auckland student Layan Khalil about the pro-Palestine protests that swept across United States college campuses and then the world. The protests were part of the movement to divest from Israel due to their ongoing war on Gaza.  And in November, Tuesday Wire host Castor and Caeden went down to Te Whanganui-a-Tara to speak to Hīkoi Mō Te Tiriti protestors who were arriving at Parliament to protest against the Treaty Principles Bill. As part of Caeden and Castor's coverage, producer Sofia spoke to renowned Māori activist Tāme Iti in November about the hīkoi. In April, Sofia spoke to Associate Professor at the University of Auckland Faculty of Law, Carrie Leonetti, about calls to criminalise stalking. And in July, she spoke to the Research Director at the Disinformation Project, Dr Sanjana Hattotuwa, about the Employment Court's judgement on Associate Professor Siouxsie Wiles' case against the University of Auckland.

On this week's Thursday Wire, we reflect on our favourite interviews from 2024 as we wrap up our reporting for the year. In May, Wire Host Caeden spoke to Yale University student Andre Fa'aoso and University of Auckland student Layan Khalil about the pro-Palestine protests that swept across United States college campuses and then the world. The protests were part of the movement to divest from Israel due to their ongoing war on Gaza.  And in November, Tuesday Wire host Castor and Caeden went down to Te Whanganui-a-Tara to speak to Hīkoi Mō Te Tiriti protestors who were arriving at Parliament to protest against the Treaty Principles Bill. As part of Caeden and Castor's coverage, producer Sofia spoke to renowned Māori activist Tāme Iti in November about the hīkoi. In April, Sofia spoke to Associate Professor at the University of Auckland Faculty of Law, Carrie Leonetti, about calls to criminalise stalking. And in July, she spoke to the Research Director at the Disinformation Project, Dr Sanjana Hattotuwa, about the Employment Court's judgement on Associate Professor Siouxsie Wiles' case against the University of Auckland.

The legal expert leading the team representing Gloriavale leavers is calling on the Government to act now and protect the victims of the community. BNZ has been given clearance to close Gloriavale's bank accounts after the Employment Court found a number of former members had worked since the age of six - with many subjected to physical punishment. Lawyer Brian Henry says the residents of the community need to be freed from the 'tyranny' of the leaders and given a new start in society. "There are people inside there who need to be freed from the tyranny of what's going on there and re-set up in society where they get a decent education for their children - and they have the opportunity to live life as free people." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Employment Court has ordered Gloriavale's leader to pay six former members more than $274,000 in legal costs. Barrister Brian Henry spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

There's a belief the latest covid Royal Commission findings may provide assistance to current legal issues. The first phase of the Inquiry into the pandemic response is being presented today, but it's unclear when the Government will release it. Chaired by Professor Tony Blakely, it says mandates caused pain to a substantial minority. Matthew Hague told Ryan Bridge this won't directly form the basis for further legal challenges. But he says it may be helpful for ongoing challenges, such as the Supreme Court decision and Employment Court cases. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us your feedback In this episode, Partners Gillian Service and June Hardacre, in our Employment team provide an insightful update on key employment law developments. They discuss key topics including worker status, good faith breaches, the integration of tikanga into employment law and potential changes on the horizon.  [01:00] June provides an overview of key cases, focusing on worker status, good faith, and non-publication orders, with notable developments from the Employment Court and Employment Relations Authority.  [03:30] Gillian and June look at legislative developments including the Holidays Act Reform, health and safety regulations and upcoming changes to contracting laws. They discuss the "gateway test" for determining contractor status.  [05:00] Gillian outlines the Uber Court of Appeal decision and its potential impact on businesses using standard-form contractor agreements. She touches on the broader implications for businesses with large, contracted workforces.  [12:00] June providesan update on the influence of tikanga in the employment court. They address the integration of tikanga principles, highlighting the cautious approach taken by the courts in applying these values.  [14:00] The pair thenexamine the introduction of implied contractual duties and the possibility of general damages. They discuss the evolving understanding of good faith in employment agreements, including a significant case that introduced new remedies for breaches of good faith.  Information in this episode is accurate as at the date of recording Tuesday, 26 September 2024. Please contact Gillian Service, June Hardacre or our Employment team if you need legal advice and guidance on any of the topics discussed in the episode. Please get in touch to receive an episode transcript. Please don't forget to rate, review or follow MinterEllisonRuddWatts wherever you get your podcasts. You can also sign up to receive technology updates via your inbox here.For show notes and additional resources visit minterellison.co.nz/podcasts

The landmark legal case involving High Performance Sport NZ and a group of the country's top athletes was back before the courts this week. The Employment Court heard the government's agency's appeal of an earlier ruling requiring it to engage in collective bargaining with new athlete union, The Athletes Cooperative. Sports reporter Dana Johannsen spoke to Lisa Owen. 

The Court of Appeal has upheld an Employment Court ruling that Uber drivers are employees rather than contractors. 

Uber drivers are celebrating a legal win, after the multi-billion dollar rideshare company failed in its bid to overturn an Employment Court decision on their status. Uber driver Nureddin Abdurahman spoke to Corin Dann.

On today's episode, the prime minister Christopher Luxon is counting on a raft of new measures to smooth out the country's energy supply issues. Luxon spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss, Uber drivers are celebrating a legal win, after the multi-billion dollar rideshare company failed in its bid to overturn an Employment Court decision on their status, In a rare moment of unity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown, Wellington mayor Tory Whanau and Greater Wellington Regional Council chairperson Daran Ponter are on the same page about congestion charges for Wellington city, in a rare moment of unity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown, Wellington mayor Tory Whanau and Greater Wellington Regional Council chairperson Daran Ponter are on the same page about congestion charges for Wellington city, and in Australia, questions about the blurring of work and home have led to new "right to disconnect" laws, which took effect on Monday.

The New Zealand Uber drivers have won their case in the Court of Appeal. It agrees with the Employment Court that Uber drivers should be employees, not contractors.  Other courts in other countries have broadly come down on the same lines.  But not in California. The other day, the court there agreed with the people. And the people had voted in a proposition that drivers should be contractors because that's what drivers signed up to.  So you can ask, is democracy right? Or is a court right?  The court here said: the critical point is we think that while a driver is logged into the app, that driver has no opportunity to establish any business goodwill of their own.  I guess that's true, but it makes no sense.  In a pure gig model, you get to choose. You choose to work, or you choose to not work. It's about flexibility. The moment you are an employee, yes you get leave, but you also lose some control. Despite what the court and the four drivers think, some people like flexibility and freedom.  The court said drivers couldn't bargain with Uber. That, of course, is correct. But that's the whole point of a gig deal. It's predicated on the idea that if the deal is so bad no one will work for them. And the counter to the no bargain and all the other lack of overarching rules and regulations, is it's a simple take it or leave it.  If you find it too egregious, don't take it. If you want a union, industrial action, pay agreements, time in lieu, and stop work meetings, be a teacher or nurse.  The tricky part now, apart from the fact Uber will take it to the Supreme Court, which they should, is that the government are reviewing Workplace Relations, and given its driven by ACT, I suspect it will be looking to free things up a bit and this court case and its decision may well be a victim of what eventually gets passed as law.  No, we don't want seven-year-olds going down mines, hence we need protections. But it's not Victorian England, it's New Zealand 2024, and if you choose to be your own person, all power to you, and the courts can stay out of your life. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand's employment court recently rejected an appeal by taxi and delivery company Uber to reverse its earlier ruling regarding the status of Uber drivers. In 2022, the employment court ruled that Uber drivers should be classified as employees rather than contractors. Uber then appealed the decision, with the employment court reaching its final verdict this week. Alongside this decision are discussions by Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Brooke Van Velden, surrounding potential changes to how workers are classified.  Wire host Castor spoke to national secretary of the E tū union, Rachel Mackintosh, about the appeal and potential upcoming legislation.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast for Tuesday the 27th of August, big changes for our energy sector - a new LNG terminal will be built for importing gas and extended resource consent periods will be introduced for renewable electricity. Ryan speaks to Massey University professor Ralph Sims and John Carnegie from Energy Resources Aotearoa to get their thoughts.  A win for Kiwi Uber drivers as the Employment Court has ruled that four drivers are employees, not contractors. Employment Lawyer Alistair Espie breaks down what it means for contractors.  Get the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The PSA has won a case against the Ministry of Education, calling it a victory for the dignity and fair treatment of workers. The union filed proceedings at the Employment Relations Authority, claiming the collective agreement wasn't met relating to the Government's spending cuts - putting hundreds of roles on the line. ZB political editor Jason Walls says the Ministry has 28 days to file an appeal to the Employment Court. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, the Employment Court's judgement found that Associate Professor Siouxsie Wiles' employer, the University of Auckland, breached its contractual obligations to protect her against ongoing threats, abuse, and harassment for her public commentary and science communication work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the many concerns Wiles raised with the university were verbal threats, being filmed without consent, and calls for her to be executed, all of which escalated both in volume and violence over time.  In the Employment Court's judgement, Wiles was awarded general damages of $20,000 to be paid to her by the university within 28 days. Research director at the Disinformation Project, Dr Sanjana Hattotuwa, was called upon as an expert witness, and provided the court with a brief of evidence in support of Siouxsie's case against the University of Auckland.  Wire host Sofia Roger Williams spoke to Hattotuwa about the judgement and its implications.

Employment lawyer Barbara Buckett explains why the Employment Court judge ruled that the University of Auckland had breached its contractual obligations to Siouxsie Wiles by not protecting her from harassment and threats.

Auckland University microbiologist Siouxsie Wiles said it's been a long and gruelling few years taking on the University over its failure to protect her against threats and harassment during the pandemic. The Employment Court has found her employer breached its contractual obligations to ensure the microbiologist's safety. Dr Wiles spoke with Ingrid Hipkiss.

E tu Negotiation Specialist, Michael Wood speaks to Lisa Owen about TVNZ losing its appeal to the ERA's ruling over how it handled job losses.

The Employment Court has rejected an appeal by state broadcaster TVNZ, over how it handled staff job cuts.  E tū union alleged the broadcaster hadn't upheld a clause in its collective agreement - which vowed to support staff taking part in changes to workplace practice.  E tū Negotiator Michael Wood told Heather du Plessis-Allan “It's a very significant ruing – it makes it clear TVNZ broke the agreement they had with staff.”  Wood said “It also means staff that were made redundant now have a very strong case to take significant personal grievances.”  LISTEN ABOVE.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The leader of the Opposition says he finds the West Coast Christian community Gloriavale abhorrent.   A new documentary series exploring the origins and controversies surrounding the secretive commune has begun airing on TVNZ.   Some members have fled in recent years and several are taking Gloriavale to the Employment Court over claims of mistreatment.   Labour's Chris Hipkins told John MacDonald his government set up an oversight group to keep an eye on Gloriavale.   He says he understands the current government has disbanded the group, which is needed now more than ever, in light of what we've seen on TV over the past few days.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For over 50 years, the secretive Christian community of Gloriavale has fascinated New Zealanders. While the community has long been discussed by former members who have left Gloriavale behind, in the last few years, multiple official investigations and Employment Court proceedings have shone more light on what's happening behind the scenes. Now, a new TVNZ documentary, Escaping Utopia, is looking back at the community's chequered history and its recent problems. Today on The Front Page, co-director Justin Pemberton joins us to explain this fresh look at historic concerns. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uber drivers and union workers have protested outside the Court of Appeal in Wellington today, as the huge rideshare company again argued that drivers are not employees. In 2022, the Employment Court determined that four Uber drivers were not independent contractors, and were being wrongfully denied employment rights and protections. Pretoria Gordon reports.

Players will be kitted out with new technology as Super Rugby Pacific kicks off tonight. Smart mouthguards will monitor head impact events, so doctors can identify who needs further assessment. And the battle between High Performance Sport NZ and the Mahe Drysdale-led Athletes' Cooperative is headed to the Employment Court. HPSNZ indicated this week it will appeal an ERA decision allowing New Zealand's top rowers and cyclists to engage in collective bargaining.

It's believed more Gloriavale leavers will join a bid for compensation after a lifetime of lost opportunities. Nine leavers found to be employees, not volunteers, in landmark Employment Court cases are jointly seeking $5.2 million. It's for lost wages, entitlement breaches, penalties and compensation. Gloriavale Leavers Support Trust general manager Liz Gregory says she's met with other leavers who want to get on board. "I wouldn't be surprised if there were 50 or 60 people that might actually also file with the Employment Relations Authority."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A group of former Gloriavale members have filed a claim for lost wages and compensation at the Employment Relations Authority that is believed to total more than $5 million. The claim follows two Employment Court rulings that the six women and three men were the Christian community's employees. Reporter Jean Edwards spoke to Corin Dann.

Some University of Auckland managers were uncomfortable with Dr Siouxsie Wiles' 'celebrity' status during Covid-19 and gave her the nickname 'Brand Siouxsie', a court heard today. Wiles is taking on the university in Employment Court, on the grounds that they should have done more to protect her from threats directed at her during the pandemic. NZ Herald reporter Isaac Davison says the university's dean of Medical and Health Sciences had voiced concern about Dr Wiles' prominence. "He had raised concerns about the nature of that and whether some of her commentary would bring the university into disrepute." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the country's most recognisable scientists has taken her employer to court. Microbiologist Dr Siouxsie Wiles alleges the University of Auckland did not take enough steps to protect her against the vitriolic, and often misogynistic, abuse she has suffered for years In 2020, Wiles became one of the key faces of pandemic communications, offering her expertise to the media to help the public better understand the crisis that was unfolding. But this came at cost. Wiles was soon targeted by venomous, misinformed, overly online bullies who felt comfortable hurling vicious attacks at the professor.  The question before the Employment Court is whether the university has done enough to ensure the safety of their employees.  Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Damien VenutoProducers: Paddy Fox and Shaun D WilsonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A pizza shop worker swindled out of tens of thousands of dollars by his former employer says there's nothing left but for the man to go to jail. In October 2022, the Employment Relations Authority ordered Devinder Mann to pay his former employee $98,000, finding he had "exploited a young vulnerable immigrant worker on an ongoing basis". The decision was upheld by the Employment Court, but Mr Mann continues to claim he's the victim and is refusing to comply with the court. Now, the worker and his advocates want to set a precedent for other would-be exploiters, and put Mr Mann behind bars. Tom Taylor reports.

NZ Post's courier drivers are taking action through the Employment Court, seeking to have themselves declared employees and not contractors. The union says the drivers have no rights to paid annual leave, public holidays, paid sick leave or bereavement leave, and they can't earn overtime pay. John Maynard is the Co-National President of the Postal Workers Union. NZ Post declined to come on the programme Monday morning. Maynard spoke to Corin Dann.

Former Gloriavale residents say they're sceptical about government plans to pass a law banning modern slavery, saying nothing has been done to stop the practice over decades at the West Coast Christian community. A proposed law change will require companies making more than $20 million annually to publicly report on how they are minimising exploitation. Last month six former Gloriavale women won a dramatic legal victory they say vindicates their claims of labour exploitation. The Employment Court found that the women were employees at the community, contrary to the arguments from Gloriavale and the findings of the Labour Inspectorate. The judge found that none of the plaintiffs were given a choice about whether they worked in the Gloriavale kitchen or laundry, that the decision was assigned at birth.The judgement also found the work was - quote - "unrelenting, grinding, hard, and physically and psychologically demanding". Gloriavale is appealing the decision. Meanwhile the Christian community's leader Howard Temple has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual offending against girls over more than 20 years. Kathryn speaks with former Gloriavale resident and one of the plaintiffs in the Employment Court case, Pearl Valour and the group's lawyer Brian Henry.

By Jean Edwards: Raised to be meek and submissive in a world dominated by men, six former Gloriavale women have won an extraordinary legal victory.

Gloriavale School is under review. The Ministry of Education has confirmed the Education Review Office is investigating the school after the Employment Court ruled six women to be employees, not volunteers, during their time in the community. The women's lawyer Brian Henry told Mike Hosking that the situation is tax funded female servitude, and the ERO needs to stand up. Henry says the women were being taught to be kept separate, and to cook, clean, wash, and sew. He says this is entirely unacceptable from any education system. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Relief and vindication for women who, according to their lawyer, were treated like slaves. The Employment Court has ruled six former Gloriavale women were employees who worked extremely hard under punishing conditions for years on end. The chief judge found the women were taught from birth that they were to submit to male leadership in all aspects of their life and primed to work on the Christian community's domestic teams. Their experience at the Christian community has left deep scars. Jean Edwards and cameraman Nathan McKinnon have the story. [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6331092978112

An employment court has vindicated six former Gloriavale women - who today won their employment court battle. These women claimed they were exploited and treated like slaves while they worked on domestic tasks for the community, including preparing food, cooking, cleaning and doing laundry. Their lawyer, Brian Henry, says there was a clear recipe for suppression and enslavement of women within the community. "They were programmed from birth and they were doing this and they were only educated to stay there. That looks and sounds, to me, in my opinion, like slavery." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uber drivers have hit a speed bump in their fight for employee rights. The global rideshare company has been given the green light to appeal last year's Employment Court decision that its drivers are employees instead of contractors. But Uber drivers say they're now more determined to fight. Anna Sargent reports.

Uber has been given the go-ahead to appeal last year's Employment Court ruling that its drivers are employees and not contractors. At stake for the drivers are workplace rights as employees, including earning the minimum wage, access to sick leave, holiday pay, Kiwisaver contributions and other benefits. First Union, along with E tū union took the original case on behalf of four Uber drivers. First Union's President Robert Reid spoke to Corin Dann.

The High Court has heard Bank of New Zealand cannot justify terminating its 40 year banking relationship with the Gloriavale Christian community. The bank sought to close Gloriavale's commercial accounts following an Employment Court ruling last year, arguing banking with the community would be inconsistent with its human rights policy. Jean Edwards reports.

Exhausted, working while sick and injured, missing meal breaks and the constant fear of making a fatal mistake. That's the daily reality inside Gisborne Hospital's acute care unit, according to nurses' evidence read out in the Employment Court today. However, health bosses deny there's an immediate safety risk and they've asked the court to make an injunction to stop nurses striking for one hour on Wednesday. Ruth Hill reports.

Gloriavale's Overseeing Shepherd has told the Employment Court he's saddened people have been harmed at the isolated Christian sect and has admitted leaders made mistakes. Howard Temple has been giving evidence in a case brought by six women who claim they lived in servitude and are seeking a ruling they were employees, rather than volunteers. He says much of the criticism directed at Gloriavale is deserved, but has denied ruling like a dictator. Jean Edwards reports from Christchurch.

The Employment Court's chief judge has made an unprecedented visit to Gloriavale as part of a case brought by six former members who claim they were exploited and treated like slaves. Christina Inglis spent two hours touring the isolated Christian commune at remote Lake Haupiri, to help her better understand the evidence presented in court. RNZ reporter Jean Edwards was there and filed this report from Gloriavale.

A court has heard Gloriavale can't afford to pay everyone wages, and employment relationships would destroy the Christian community's way of life. Gloriavale women have been giving evidence in an Employment Court case, where their work has been described as a labour of love, not slave labour. Jean Edwards reports from Greymouth.

A significant number of Gloriavale members are expected to be in the public gallery when the Employment Court sits in Greymouth this week. Six former Gloriavale women are seeking a ruling that they were employees of the West Coast Christian community, not volunteers. Reporter Jean Edwards has been covering the case and spoke to Corin Dann from Greymouth.

Uber drivers have begun negotiations for their first-ever collective agreement with the company. Following the Employment Court ruling that a group of Uber drivers were employees and not contractors for the ride sharing company, hundreds more drivers have unionised. The Uber drivers will use these negotiations to push for better pay and working conditions. However, BusinessDesk tech columnist Peter Griffin says workplace benefits will come at a cost to consumers, as riders might have to pay more in Uber fares. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Gloriavale Christian School principal Faithful Pilgrim is expected to give evidence in the next phase of an Employment Court case resuming today, before a visit to the isolated West Coast community by the chief judge. Six former Gloriavale women are seeking a ruling they were employees, not volunteers, living in slave-like conditions at the commune. Reporter Jean Edwards has been covering the case.  She spoke to Kim Hill.  

An Uber driver says an Employment Court decision ruling he is an employee of the rideshare company, rather than a contractor, will be significant. Bill Rama is one of four drivers who were granted employment status after the case was brought by the FIRST Union and E Tū. Uber plans to appeal the decision. Rama spoke to Corin Dann. Uber declined to come on the programme.

The global rideshare company Uber says it will appeal what some are calling a landmark Employment Court ruling, granting four drivers the status of employees, rather than contractors. First Union and E Tū jointly brought the case to the court, representing four drivers. They say the win could have significant implications for other Uber drivers. But the company says while they're all for contractor policy reform, they believe it should happen at parliamentary level, not through the courts. First Union's strategic project coordinator Anita Rosentreter spoke to Corin Dann. Uber declined to come on the programme this morning.

An Employment Court win for four New Zealand Uber drivers. First Union and E Tu sought declaration the drivers were employees- and entitled to things like the minimum wage, guaranteed hours, sick leave and the right to unionise. First Union's Anita Rosentreter says the court only has the power to declare them employees - but they hope that will bring wider change. She says the judge indicated there could be broader application of the decision - particularly where there's apparent uniformity in how the company operates - as in this instance. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A granddaughter of Gloriavale's Overseeing Shepherd Howard Temple has told a court he is respectful of girls and doesn't have a reputation for inappropriate behaviour. Joanna Courage told the Employment Court she feels safe and has a good life at the Christian commune, as Jean Edwards reports from Christchurch.

A Gloriavale woman has described how her husband got in trouble with the Christian community's leadership for writing and distributing a book without their knowledge. Sarah Standtrue has told an Employment Court hearing she was prepared to leave the commune with him if he was asked to go. Jean Edwards reports from Christchurch. [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6312951782112

A Gloriavale mother has told a court she does not believe the leadership knew about sexual abuse at the Christian community. Purity Valor has also denied being downtrodden and subjugated, at an Employment Court hearing in Christchurch. Jean Edwards reports.

The Gloriavale School Principal says the Christian community and her way of life are being attacked by those who have chosen to leave. Gloriavale's leaders began their defence today in Employment Court in Christchurch, where six former members are seeking the ruling they were employees, not volunteers while in the community. Niva Chittock is in court.

A former manager of multiple Gloriavale companies has told the Employment Court the religious community generates most of its money through Government benefits. A hearing has resumed today in Christchurch, as six former Gloriavale women seek a ruling they were employees, not volunteers during their time there. Niva Chittock reports.

A former Gloriavale woman has told a court how she hurt her back repeatedly lifting 20kg crates of meat above her head in the so-called Christian community's freezer. Rebekah Kempf says she started work as a little girl and never refused as a teenager because she was terrified of what might happen. Jean Edwards reports from the Employment Court in Christchurch.

A court has heard Gloriavale founder Hopeful Christian told a father who had just buried his daughter that he could take comfort from the fact she wouldn't be molested. Clem Ready says sexual offending was prevalent at the Christian community and its leaders used their power to cover it up. Jean Edwards reports from the Employment Court hearing in Christchurch.

A court has heard there was an ingrained culture of bullying and mocking at Gloriavale, where powerful and controlling leaders punished women. Former member Virginia Courage told the Employment Court she was mocked for the way she looked when she was pregnant, as Jean Edwards reports. 

A former Gloriavale woman says the Christian community's leaders thought they were above the law. The Employment Court has been hearing evidence from leavers who claim they were working in slave-like conditions and exposed to sexual harassment and abuse from a young age. Jean Edwards reports from Christchurch.

The highest profile court case this week is actually being heard in our Employment Court rather than our High Court, Court of Appeal or Supreme Court. The Gloriavale case is just one example of the many high-profile cases heard in this court. But how did a specialist court become so prominent in our society? Today Dr Grant Morris traces the long history of New Zealand's employment court.

Warning: Story contains content that some listeners might find upsetting. A court has heard distressing testimony from a former Gloriavale woman who says her treatment at the secretive Christian community made her suicidal. The Employment Court has also heard evidence girls as young as eight were worried about being groped while serving food. Jean Edwards reports.

A court has been told victim blaming and shaming was standard at Gloriavale, where girls caught in inappropriate relationships with married men were called 'whores'. Six former Gloriavale women want the Employment Court to rule they were employees, not volunteers, during their time at the West Coast community. Jean Edwards reports.

A court has heard a Gloriavale woman sometimes didn't eat or drink while working extremely long hours, and would get in trouble if she stopped. She's one of six former members seeking a ruling from the Employment Court that they were employees, not volunteers, at the Christian community on the South Island's West Coast. Jean Edwards reports from Christchurch.

A court has heard a Gloriavale woman sometimes didn't eat or drink while working extremely long hours, and would get in trouble if she stopped. She's one of six former members seeking a ruling from the Employment Court that they were employees, not volunteers, at the Christian community on the South Island's West Coast. Jean Edwards reports from Christchurch.

KEY POINTS: Group of ex-Gloriavale women claiming they were subjected to life of servitude Women seeking ruling in Employment Court that they were not volunteers Case follows similar proceedings by group of ex-Gloriavale men earlier in 2022 Court to hear "scandalous" evidence of forced labour and "abuse" at Christian community The first woman in a group of Gloriavale leavers claiming they were subjected to a life of servitude and forced labour says there were two options in the community - "work or get in trouble". "We had no choices … none, we went to work every day," said Serenity Pilgrim. "You just sucked it up … There was never an option of being sick … you just got used to it and that's what you did.' Pilgrim is one of six women taking their case to the Employment Court seeking a ruling that they were employees and not volunteers during their time at the secretive West Coast Christian community. Pilgrim was born at Gloriavale and spent her life there with her parents and siblings until she was 16. "As far as I can remember, I always had to work," she said. "I always had jobs." She said she worked at least 90 hours a week while at Gloriavale and her parents "had no say" in what she did there. She said work included helping with dinner, washing and cleaning and had to be done before and after school. "We would always be up around 4.30am or earlier to complete the jobs that were assigned to us before breakfast," Pilgrim said. "We had to keep working after dinner if we didn't get the jobs finished. "As I got older there was more work, more responsibilities, you were expected to grow up, be an adult… even if you don't think you have to handle it, you just have to do it. "There was no downtime, no time for me to do what I wanted to do … There was just work all the time." Pilgrim said girls had constant chores to do outside their "teams" - groups of women tasked with various domestic work in the laundry, kitchen and the like. There was no "downtime" and even if she did have any time off, she had nothing to do. "Because everyone else was working," she said. "I was expected to look after younger siblings because mum was always working … that was my downtime. "If I wasn't working then mum would be … there was always a baby so I always had to look after the baby because mum was working. I guess that was my downtime. "I looked forward to having to look after my siblings because that was a little break." Pilgrim explained that breaks were unheard of during the working day and she often went without food and water for most of the day. She was simply too busy doing her chores to stop and eat or drink. The women running the kitchen calculated what each person needed to eat each day and it was "measured out". There were three set meals a day from Monday to Saturday and nothing was provided in between. Chief Employment Court Judge Christina Inglis. Photo / George Heard On Sunday people aged 5 and older were not given any food until the evening community meal. "Half of the time I did not get proper meals because I had to work … when I left Gloriavale at age 16 I weighed 38kg. Two years after I had put on 15kg," said Pilgrim. She said there was little to no education for girls and most "scraped through" until they could work full time. "I had no option … It was just expected I would leave school and go and work on the team," she said. "They pushed us through our schooling so we could get onto the teams as soon as possible - there was no other option. "I don't know of any girl asking to do anything other than what was expected." Pilgrim said she wanted to be a midwife or teacher but was too scared to ask. "I hinted at this to my grandfather … but I gave up … I just had to accept I would work on the teams every day. "I remember I would go home to my mum and cry … I knew I did not have another option." "You were scared of being told off because you were thinking on your own … I knew that asking for other jobs just wasn't an option." Pilgrim said whenever she did hint at wanting to do other things she was lambasted by her team leaders and told "you should be happy, you should do what you are told". Pilgrim spoke of "pretty much cleaning all day" through most of her life at the commune. On "cooking days" when she was on the team tasked with feeding the 600-strong community she would work from 4am. She recalled falling asleep at breakfast because she was so tired and not eating other than "shovelling down" lunch. The day did not end until all of the community had been fed, the dishes washed and dried - mostly by hand - and the kitchen cleaned entirely ahead of the next day. Many women from Gloriavale will give evidence about their "peaceful" life in the secretive Christian community. Photo / George Heard Pilgrim said if she was on "dishes" that is all she would do from 4am to 9pm - with no help. Her feet and legs would be aching by the end and her shoes and socks sopping wet. But, she said, that was normal life for Gloriavale girls. Pilgrim also spoke of marriage in the community. "You pretty much wait for someone to show up at your door and ask 'hey, will you marry me?" "You didn't even know if you would like them. "I knew I would be expected to have child after child - no choice. "In Gloriavale your choices are all taken away from you, without you knowing." Since leaving the community Pilgrim has finished her secondary education and trained as a beauty therapist. She now works 40 hours a week, chooses how she spends her own money, gets breaks and time off. "That would never be an option at Gloriavale, women are expected to cook, clean and have kids," she said. "At Gloriavale I was always tired ... that was just how it was." "If I had a choice there is no way I would have ever done what I was made to do ... that was just what you did ... I would definitely not call the work I did volunteering - because I had no choice ... I did not decide. "We got our board and keep and we worked hard for it ... I worked because I was told to ... I had been born into Gloriavale and I didn't know anything different ... I just grew up knowing one day I would work and do all these hours and I would eventually get married and have children ... and that was just how it was going to be. "It definitely was not freedom." Pilgrim said her life now was dramatically different. "I am happy because I am free and I can make my own decisions," she said. Gloriavale's lawyer Philip Skelton QC suggested to Pilgrim that her evidence was "exaggerated and inaccurate". However she stood by her account. The court will also hear from leavers Anna Courage, Rose Standtrue, Crystal Loyal, Pearl Valour and Virginia Courage who alongside Pilgrim say they were effectively born into and kept in "servitude" - which is illegal in New Zealand - and had no power to choose their own path while living at the West Coast sect. The women will give evidence that they had to work "extremely long" hours serving the 600-strong population, mainly in "deliberately gendered" jobs including "cooking, cleaning and washing clothes". Some worked in the Gloriavale office and others as midwives. The women claim they "did not have a choice" as to whether they worked or not" and the roles forced upon them were "expressly and deliberately gendered". Furthermore, they were expected to "scrub, cook and clean for the rest of their life" or be "pregnant for the rest of their life". "They were under the control of the shepherds and had no freedom," their lawyer Brian Henry told the court. "They work, not chores - work ... and the hours get longer and harder. "They scrub and they clean and they cook and that is their lives ... with the only (break) one week holiday or having babies. "You don't oppose the shepherds ... you're out of unity if you don't just trot on and behave how you want them to. "There is no informed choice to stay and the choice to leave is difficult given the obstacles put in front of them." Members of the Gloriavale community have travelled to attend the "scandalous" Employment Court case against their leaders. Photo / George Heard Gloriavale "strongly contests" all claims of "servitude, slavery and forced labour". Their case follows a similar action by a group of former Gloriavale men - Hosea Courage, Daniel Pilgrim and Levi Courage - who the court ruled were employees from when they were just 6 years old, regularly undertaking "strenuous, difficult, and sometimes dangerous" work when they were still legally required to be at school. In that case, Judge Christina Inglis ruled that the men had worked up to 70 hours a week and were subjected to "rigorous, sometimes violent supervision", being hit if they did not work fast enough and denied food at times. Both the current and earlier cases followed multiple inquiries into the employment status of people living and working at Gloriavale. The Labour Inspectorate investigated in 2017 after concerns raised by Charities Services, and again in 2020, after allegations of long working hours were made by two community members. The results of both inquiries showed that no employment relationships existed within Gloriavale as defined by New Zealand employment law - that members of Gloriavale cannot currently be considered employees. However, the Employment Court ruled the opposite, that members are employees - and the landmark decision has opened the door for the leavers to take further court action against Gloriavale. Today Judge Inglis started hearing opening statements from lawyers for both the women and the community. The court will then hear from 49 witnesses - including the women behind the case and current members of the community. The hearing is expected to run for more than a month. - by Anna Leask, NZ HeraldSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Six former Gloriavale women who allege they lived in slave-like conditions and worked under a regime of total control will have their case heard by the Employment Court today. The women say they were employees not volunteers at the reclusive Christian community on the South Island's West Coast - a claim Gloriavale's leaders strongly deny. Reporter Jean Edwards is covering the hearing in Christchurch.

Warnings its far past time Gloriavale asks the outside world what is appropriate and what is not.The secretive Christian community has apologised today after several members were charged for child and sexual abuse crimes.The Employment Court also found some ex-Gloriavale members were used as employees from the age of six.Its leaders say they're now figuring out the difference between chores, farming duties appropriate for children and commercial work.But NZ Herald Reporter Anna Leask told Heather du-Plessis-Allan the current leaders were born there and lack perspective.“Do you know that having a child working in a pig farm for 17 hours a day – do you know that that's dangerous and strenuous and not OK, or is that just what you did?”LISTEN ABOVE

Is Gloriavale the new Russia of the NZ Ag Sector? Silver Fern Farms has announced it will no longer be working with the Gloriavale Christian community after the Employment Court found they were making kids work. It's National Lamb Day! Lamb NZ is celebrating 140 years since the first shipment of frozen New Zealand lamb and mutton landed in London, 98 days after embarking from Port Chalmers on 15 February 1882, on the sailing ship Dunedin. Host of the Country Jamie Mackay joined Heather du Plessis-Allan. LISTEN ABOVE 

Today FM can reveal that Worksafe has completed an un-notified visit to Gloriavale to assess health and safety requirements. This after an Employment Court ruling revealed child labour, exploitation, violence, indoctrination, manipulation, bullying, withholding food and threats at the West Coast Christian commune. Worksafe says its inspectors assessed activities in the community including the oil processing and Value Protein plants. Value Protein is Gloriavale’s trading company which Silver Fern Farms just cut ties with too. Workplace Minister & Transport Minister Michael Wood joined Tova on Wednesday morning to discuss the surprise Gloriavale inspection and also Light Rail.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WorkSafe will soon come knocking on Gloriavale's door and the charities regulator has launched an investigation as a result of an Employment Court ruling on child labour. Government agencies are under pressure to act after the court found children as young as six were employees at the isolated fundamentalist Christian community. Young people put to work as children have described the judgement as a turning point in their employment fight, that could result in big compensation pay-outs. Jean Edwards reports.

The Employment Court has ruled Gloriavale residents were employees - not volunteers.Hosea and Levi Courage, and Daniel Pilgrim, have now left the religious community, and sought a declaration on their status after leaving school and working at the commune and its businesses.Gloriavale claims work done by six to 14 year olds was chores, by 15-year-olds it was part of school ... and from 16 it was voluntary.Chief Judge Christina Inglis has found all three were employees from the age of six until they left the commune.She says the work can't be described as chores or education, because of its commercial nature.On the show today we discussed the implication of the decision on other organisations that utilise volunteers.Barrister Kathryn Dalziel joined Simon Barnett & James Daniels.LISTEN ABOVE

Daniel Pilgrim is one of the former Gloriavale residents who took on the West Coast community in the Employment Court and won yesterday.  Daniel Pilgrim spoke to Newstalk ZB's John MacDonald about why he went ahead with the legal action and how his life has changed since leaving the community.   LISTEN ABOVE  

There is no place in New Zealand for an outfit like Gloriavale.  It cannot be allowed to continue operating. And it is absolutely shameful that we have pretty much turned a blind eye to what's been going on there for so long. Absolutely shameful. It's in the news again today because of the Employment Court ruling that three former members were technically employees when they were forced to work all sorts of ungodly hours from the age of six. As the court ruling says, the work carried out by these people from the time they were 6 to the time they were 14 couldn't be described or passed-off as “chores” for three reasons: - The commercial nature of the work they were doing - The fact the work was carried out over an extended period of time, and - Because the work was strenuous, difficult and sometimes dangerous And then when they got to the age of 15, they were still legally obliged to be at school but the powers-that-be at Gloriavale had them working – which the Employment Court judge said couldn't in the least way be described as “work experience” or “volunteering”. The judge didn't say it as bluntly as this, but these people were abused and exploited big time and if anyone else tried to do what Gloriavale did – and still does, as far as we're aware – then all sorts of agencies would be coming down on them like a tonne of bricks. Gloriavale seems to get away with whatever it wants to get away with but, in my view, the time has come to crack down on this outfit big time. The time has come to go in there, shut it down and rescue those poor sods who are stuck there. Because the decision by the Employment Court released yesterday is just the tip of the tip of the tip of the iceberg, isn't it? It was interesting to hear Liz Gregory from the Gloriavale Leavers Support Trust speaking on Newstalk ZB's Early Edition this morning. She seems to think that one of the reasons the creeps at Gloriavale have been able to get away with things for so long is that the West Coast community has been prepared to turn a bit of a blind eye to what's going on. When I heard that I went looking for evidence and, guess what, I found it. Can you believe that, as recently as 2015, even the local West Coast MP Damien O'Connor was standing up for them? This was when former MP Dr Liz Gordon – who is an education researcher – came out and said Gloriavale should be closed because she thought it was loony that they force kids to finish school at 15 and make the girls do the cooking and cleaning and make the boys work on the farm. Loony tunes alright. But what did Damien O'Connor say about that? He said the place didn't ring any alarm bells for him. He said Gloriavale had built a new school facility which (as he put it) “looked pretty amazing” and that there were many schools throughout the country that had variable levels of education and expertise and “I guess they're just another one of those”. That's what Damien O'Connor said seven years ago about Gloriavale. I wonder how he feels about that today. If he's not acutely embarrassed then he can go-ahead and appoint himself spiritual leader of the wilfully ignorant. Because what's happening at Gloriavale is nothing short of modern-day slavery. The people there are slaves to the outfit's ideology and slaves to its money-making ventures which – by the way – made a surplus of nearly $2.8 million last year. And as we know, if anyone dares to think for themselves and gets themselves out of it, they leave with nothing and they are cut off forever. I watched those former members on the TV news last night who'd been to the Employment Court and couldn't help thinking how tormenting it must be for them knowing that they have family members still trapped there. And there's no other word to use (as far as I'm concerned) – people are trapped there. And why the hell we've just let it keep going, beggars' belief. 

The Department of Internal Affairs is investigating whether to strip Gloriavale of it's charitable status, after a conclusive Employment Court ruling against the Christian community. Today FM understands the government is also considering legislative changes after Gloriavale was found to be exploiting child labour - using violence and starvation as punishment . To explain some of the potential implications for employment law - and for Gloriavale - is Partner at Dentons Kensington Swan, Charlotte Parkhill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A senior barrister specialising in employment law says yesterday's groundbreaking employment court ruling on child labour at Gloriavale is a wake-up call for government agencies and other organisations relying heavily on volunteers. The Employment Court found that three former members of the Christian group were employed from the age of six, doing work that was strenuous and sometimes dangerous. The Labour Inspectorate, which is part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, had earlier concluded people working at Gloriavale, including children, were volunteers. Senior Christchurch barrister specialising in employment law, Kathryn Dalziel, says the judgement could impact any church group or incoroporated society that relies on volunteers, and should ring alarm bells with a number of public agencies.

The Employment Court has ruled that three members of the reclusive Gloriavale Christian community were employees working long hours from the age of just six. The landmark decision about the strenuous, difficult and sometimes dangerous work done by children is likely to have significant legal ramifications for the community on the South Island's West Coast. Jean Edwards and cameraman Nate McKinnon spoke to two of the young men who brought the case. Their lawyer Brian Henry talks to Lisa Owen.

A former member of Gloriavale is still savouring what he says was a "mind-blowing" legal victory yesterday. The Employment Court has found that the Christian sect effectively employed Daniel Pilgrim, along with two others, from the age of six through until their teen years in what it said was  "strenuous, difficult and sometimes dangerous" conditions. Chief Judge Christina Inglis will rule on the question of compensation later.  Pilgrim spoke to Susie Ferguson.

Significant compensation could be the result of a landmark Employment Court decision. The court has ruled a group of former Gloriavale members were working as employees from six years old. Hosea and Levi Courage, and Daniel Pilgrim, sought a declaration on the status on work they did at the commune and its businesses. Lawyer Brian Henry told Heather du Plessis-Allan it's not clear what full back pay would amount to – but it could be a lot. “There will be a need for the labour inspector to look at a whole range of things which is including paying them properly, compensation for various breaches of the general employment standards that they've incurred.” LISTEN ABOVE 

Willie Jackson's lashed out at David Seymour – saying he's the most useless advocate for Māori because ACT wants to get rid of the Ministry for Māori Development. What do you make of that? Looks like congestion charges are all but confirmed – the question is how fast is the Government going to bring them in and where exactly will they apply? Prince Harry is launching some global campaign around sustainable travel and he picked out NZ to make his case... is this odd to you? The Employment Court has decided that Gloriavale kids who are working are indeed "employees" – has this got the potential to blow up the way this community operates? Ben Thomas, former National Party Press Secretary, and Neale Jones, former Chief of Staff to Jacinda Ardern, joined Heather du Plessis on the Huddle. LISTEN ABOVE 

An Employment Court ruling has found in favour of three former members of the commune all put to work from six years old. The work conditions were laborious, often dangerous, required physical exertion over extended periods to turn a profit that went to Gloriavale. Gloriavale tried to argue it wasn’t work, they weren’t employees. The court didn’t have a bar of it. Daniel Pilgrim was working 60-70-hour weeks at the age of 15 and put to work at the age of six.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Employment court has ruled ex-Gloriavale members were employees from six years old, not volunteers.Hosea and Levi Courage, and Daniel Pilgrim, have now left the religious community, but sought a declaration on their status after leaving school and working at the commune and its businesses.The Employment court found the work can't be described as chores or education, because of the commercial nature.The commune claimed work done from the ages of six-to 14 are chores, at age 15 it's part of schoolwork, and from 16 it was voluntary.Employment Specialist with the Whitehead Group, Max Whitehead said with more judgements to come, this could create huge implications for the community.“Now this ruling's been set, these people are employees those other questions are going to be asked and look, this could bankrupt Gloriavale.”LISTEN ABOVE

The spotlight is turning to other cases at Gloriavale which could be described as forced labour.The Employment Court has ruled three ex-residents were employees from the age of six, not volunteers.It found the work can't be described as chores or education, because of the commercial nature.Gloriavale Leavers Support Trust Manager Liz Gregory told Kate Hawkesby there's now the opportunity for others, with a second case already set down for September.She says it's set a precedent for how future cases are decided.LISTEN ABOVE

The Ministry of Health is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on legal fees to fight families that care for their disabled children. Three cases, all of which still have a long way to run through the court system, have so far cost the government more than $600,000. They all revolve around whether the carers are employed by the Ministry, or by their disabled family members. The Employment Court has already found that the Ministry is the employer, which could mean compensation for lost wages and holiday pay. Independent disability advocate Jane Carrigan spoke to Corin Dann.

Friday's planned strike by thousands of Allied Health workers at public hospitals nationwide has been called off. The PSA pulled the plug on the day-long strike from 6am, and a strike planned for March 18, following a last minute Employment Court decision. The court said the industrial action is illegal because it was over an equal pay claim. District Health Boards spokesperson Keriana Brooking spoke to Susie Ferguson.

The Employment Court will meet under urgency on Thursday to consider an injunction to stop a planned strike by Allied Health workers at public hospitals tomorrow. The injunction was lodged by District Health Boards, who want the union, the Public Service Association, to lift the strike notice. DHBs argue the strike would bundle pay equity and wage issues together, and at a bad time, during Omicron. Allied health workers reject this, saying the DHB employers have had plenty of time before now to address the issues. DHB spokesperson Keriana Brooking spoke to Susie Ferguson

PSA organiser Will Matthews says his organisation is 'really, really dismayed' by a legal attempt by district health boards to thwart planned strike action over stalled wage talks. The union is planning to strike from 6am on Friday. On Thursday the Employment Court will consider, under urgency, a last-minute injunction filed by DHBs to prevent strike action. The court's expected to release its decision later on Thursday allowing limited time for the union to communicate with its members. Matthews spoke to Corin Dann.

Hospital, community and outpatient services could be postponed for 24 hours if a planned strike by Allied Health workers goes ahead. District Health Boards have asked the Employment Court to stop Friday's strike, in which around 10-thousand PSA members are expected to participate. The boards argue facilitation with the Employment Relations Authority is already set down for Monday and Tuesday. Hawke's Bay DHB Chief Executive Keriana Brooking told Mike Hosking it's vital staff continue working during these unprecedented times. “I think with the acceleration of Omicron, particularly over the past week, we really need to stop and we're asking PSA to rethink that action.” LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Employment Court has upheld a parent's argument that the Ministry of Health - and not his severely disabled daughter - is his legal employer. The keenly-watched case involved a fulltime carer, Peter Humphreys, who argued that it is a nonsense for the Ministry of Health to claim his 33-year-old daughter - who has Angelman syndrome - could be his boss. The court agreed. Disability rights campaigner Jane Carrigan closely followed the case, and others like it. She spoke to Corin Dann.

The Employment Court has upheld a parent's argument that the Ministry of Health - and not his severely disabled daughter - is his legal employer. The keenly-watched case involved a fulltime carer, Peter Humphreys, who argued that it is a nonsense for the Ministry of Health to claim his 33-year-old daughter - who has Angelman syndrome - could be his boss. The court agreed. Disability rights campaigner Jane Carrigan closely followed the case, and others like it. She spoke to Corin Dann.

Vet clinics experience high staff burnout, high staff turnover, some (sadly) have reputations for allowing toxicity within the team to continue, infect and affect everything that happens inside that clinic.Constructive DismissalsWhat conditions need to be met for the Employment Court or Tribunal to confirm constructive dismissal took place,Two questions that need to be answered,What remedies are available A couple of examples of Constructive Dismissal which have been upheld in court andWhat being "disadvantaged" at work meansTriangular situationsEmployment Personal GrievancesWhat a Personal Grievance case looks likeThe process for initiating a personal grievance (PG)Mediation - where to get it for free and what to do if it doesn't workWorkplace BullyingDifferent types of bullying and what they could look likeEmployer's responsibility to keep employees safe from harm at workWhat workplace bullying is and what it's not - directWhat workplace bullying is and what it's not - indirectSafety at work is everyone's responsibilityLinks mentioned in today's podcastWorksafe NZ Reporting and Assessment FormsTWO BELIEFS THAT GOVERN EVERYONE AT VETSTAFFThat all VetMed professionals deserve to work in the clinic of their dreams where they're respected and valued.That Employers of Choice deserve to attract and have the best highly-motivated, proactive, enthusiastic and engaged professionals working for them.There are some recruiters who'd sell their own grandmother to an employer that'd make her life miserable – that's not VetStaff – believe it or not there are, sadly, vet clinics in NZ that we won't work with – no matter how much they paid us – because of how they treat their teams.  Unfortunately, that list is growing.  We'd love to chat with you if you like our two beliefs too!julie@vetstaff.co.nz0800 483 869 (NZ only)VetStaff leading veterinary sector recruitment in New Zealand | veterinarians | locums | nurses

Join us for this important live webinar hosted by Voices For Freedom co-founders (Claire & Alia) with special guests Sue Grey and Derek Gilbert on 28 September 2021 to outline your rights, obligations and options currently available to you in New Zealand if your job or study is affected by No Jab, No Job mandate. If you are facing a workplace jab mandate right now, have received a letter of termination, or if you can see one on the horizon, don't miss this very important event. (And even if you have already been jabbed you may find the information shared to be of assistance going forward.) You can find all the resources referred to in this webinar at https://voicesforfreedom.co.nz/employment DISCLAIMER: The information in this webinar is provided general information and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or medical advice. The matters discussed and any resources provided need to be considered by you with respect to your personal situation. Anything you say or do based on information provided in this webinar you do on your own account. We recommend that you seek professional legal and/or medical advice with respect to your own situation. Sue Grey LLB(Hons), BSc (biochemistry and Microbiology), RSHDipPHI, is a New Zealand qualified lawyer with her own practice specialising in emerging issues, based in Nelson. She has worked for Department of Health in the mid 1980s - which included infection disease investigation and contract tracing, quarantine, health and safety in those days. Derek Gilbert is an Employment Advocate in Christchurch. Derek has a wealth of experience appearing before the Employment Relations Authority and in the Employment Court. More recently, Derek has been working on cases involving the Covid19 orders and government mandated policy on forced medical procedures. For more podcasts on these and other topics relating to upholding our freedoms join Claire, Libby and Alia at VOICES FOR FREEDOM - https://voicesforfreedom.co.nz

The DHBs are taking nurses to the Employment Court, accusing them of not doing enough to guarantee safe staffing levels during a planned strike this month. Nurses have formally declared they will walk off the job again on August 19, as negotiations to improve patient safety in hospitals fail. The nurses rejected the latest pay offer by the district health boards last week. DHB spokesperson Jim Green spoke to Corin Dann.

The DHBs are taking nurses to the Employment Court, accusing them of not doing enough to guarantee safe staffing levels during a planned strike this month. Nurses have formally declared they will walk off the job again on August 19, as negotiations to improve patient safety in hospitals fail. The nurses rejected the latest pay offer by the district health boards last week. NZ Nurses Organisation spokesperson Glenda Alexander spoke to Susie Ferguson.

Nurses and their bosses are heading to the courts over strike action, as both accuse each other of not doing enough to keep patients safe. About 30,000 district health board nurses have issued a formal strike notice for August 19. DHBs have retaliated by taking them to the Employment Court, saying they're not doing enough to guarantee safe staffing on strike day. Health correspondent Rowan Quinn reports.

Unions are heading to the Employment Court taking action over Uber's drivers - asking the question when a 'contractor' is really a 'worker', and should be offered worker benefits. 

An Employment Court case reveals Inland Revenue's extensive use of contractors Google taking the Government for a ride? And a warning about the new bright-line test

A mother looking after her severely disabled son 24/7 could be in line for significant compensation and lost wages after a court ruled she is an employee and her boss is the Ministry of Health. Christine Fleming looks after her 40-year-old son Justin around the clock. He has Williams Syndrome - a genetic disorder that causes developmental delays, medical complications, and cannot be left alone. Fleming has survived on a benefit rather than accepting Ministry of Health funding, as that would have left her financially worse off. Now the Employment Court has ruled she is a home worker having been her son's primary carer since birth, the Ministry of Health knew she was doing the work and her son Justin lacks the mental capacity to employ her, so the Ministry is effectively her boss. It means Christine Fleming is entitled to lost wages, holiday pay and potentially other compensation. Disability Advocate Jane Carrigan helped take the case. Dana Cocks is Justin's older sister. She told Checkpoint the family is trying to get their heads round the decision - but it is a relief to get some recognition.

An employment law expert says there's no precedent for giving an employee the sack, for getting stuck overseas.Vodafone NZ says it is updating its messaging to staff about personal travel to Australia during the bubble.An earlier memo had warned staff they faced possible "termination" if trapped overseas by a border closure ... beyond their approved leave.Employment lawyer Jennifer Mills says she would not recommend employers release a bubble travel policy including such a dismissal provision.Where personal leave had been granted, and an employee was subsequently trapped across the Tasman by a border closure, paid leave should be used up in the first instance.Once that was exhausted, "the appropriate response would be unpaid leave", Mills said.Mills said that, in her view, the dismissal provision of Vodafone NZ's policy would not hold up in an Employment Relations Authority hearing or the Employment Court.LISTEN ABOVE