This May Day long weekend, Territorians should reflect on the importance of workers' rights.
Date: 29 April 2010
This May Day long weekend, Senator Trish Crossin has urged Territorians to reflect on the importance of workers' rights and warned of Liberal Party attempts to revive Work Choices.
"May Day is an important reminder that workers are just as important as profits. It is about celebrating the victories of the labor movement and remaining vigilant in the protection of workers rights."
However, recent comments from senior figures in the Liberal Party including Opposition Leader Tony Abbott have caused great concern. They indicate that if elected, the Liberals would revive their old WorkChoices policy.
Senator Crossin said, "Mr Abbott has promised business executives that he wants to bring back the worst parts of WorkChoices. This includes removing unfair dismissal protections."
"It is important to remember that under WorkChoices, more than 3.5 million workers lost protection from unfair dismissal."
As recently as last weekend, Liberal Senator Eric Abetz publicly revealed that Liberal loyalty still lies with WorkChoices. During his address at the HR Nicholls Society, Senator Abetz pledged that he would abolish the award safety net standard of minimum work hours.
Senator Crossin said, "The Liberal Party can't get over their WorkChoices addiction."
"Tony Abbott might want to call it a new name, but the fact remains that the Liberals are the party of WorkChoices and they cannot be trusted by Australian workers."
"Standing up to WorkChoices was a victory for all working Territorians. We can't go back."
"May Day is a time to support each other in our working lives, and celebrate the victories of workers."