May 2008 Newsletter

IS HE AN EMPLOYEE OR A CONTRACTOR?
A recent determination by Leon Robinson in the Employment Relations Authority (Smith vs Pacific Palms International Resort & Golf Club Ltd) has ruled the contractor was in fact, an employee despite there being a contract in place and monthly invoices submitted that included GST,Employer now faces a $225,000 problem ...read more >>

$90,000 OSH PROBLEM FOR ROADING COMPANY
Fulton Hogan has pleaded guilty to a charge of failing to take all practicable steps in their safety procedures in the Balclutha District Court. The company has been ordered to pay $50,000 reparation to the family of the dead employee and $40,000 as a fine....read more >>

FIXED TERM CONTRACT GOES AWRY
The Employment Relations Authority has determined employers cannot use Fixed Term Agreements as trial periods. This has led to a hearing of unjustified dismissal being found for the employee. ... read more >>

SOLID BUYING POWER (70% off telephone bills)
Employers Assistance Ltd now has some 40,000 clients which gives us the ability to obtain 'best deals' for our clients. We often search and negotiate with various companies and organisations looking for products, services and savings offering good value to our clients. ... read more >>

MORE PARENTAL LEAVE LIKELY
The Government looks set to announce an increase in paid parental leave ahead of this year's election. We will keep you updated as soon as any changes occur.

HOLIDAYS ACT CHANGE ON IT'S WAY
The Bill before Parliament is progressing. The intention is to grant 'shift' employees an entitlement to reach agreement with the employer regarding observing a Public Holiday on a different day.

We will keep you up to date as events unfold. Our earlier newsletter provides some detail. Please remember it is a Bill – not law as yet.

EXTENDED SUPPORT FOR MEMBERS ONLINE
Employer Support Package members now have the facility to chat live to our legal and support teams on line ... read more >>