Iain Lees-Galloway
Wellington, January 29, 2018
The New Zealand government has announced the establishment of a Film Industry Working Group, facilitated by Linda Clark, to find a fit-for purpose way to restore workers rights in the screen industry.
This Government is determined that all New Zealand workers get a fair go, including film workers.
Hobbit Law effects
The 2010 Hobbit Law meant that film production workers were treated as independent contractors, unless they are party to a written employment agreement that states they are employees.
This effectively denied them rights enjoyed by other workers in New Zealand. Contractors do not have the right to bargain collectively under the Employment Relations Act.
New Zealand must have a highly skilled and innovative economy that provides well-paid, decent jobs, and delivers on economic growth and productivity.
To achieve these outcomes, working people need a voice in their workplace through collective bargaining.
The industry has agreed to work collaboratively to find a durable solution to restore collective bargaining rights for film production workers, without necessarily changing the status of those who wish to continue working as independent contractors.
The Key Players
The Working Group is made up of key industry players, as well as BusinessNZ and the Council of Trade Unions.
I have been very impressed so far with the collegiality and progressive thinking across the sector as we seek a solution that is fit for the needs of the screen industry.
The Working Group will examine how we can reach the right balance for workers and producers. I am also pleased to announce the appointment of Linda Clark as facilitator for the Working Group. I am confident that Ms Clark will effectively support the Working Group to achieve its task.
The groups recommendations will help ensure the continued growth of New Zealands vibrant, strong and world-leading film industry.
The group will meet over the next six months, with its recommendations to the Minister expected by mid-2018.
Working Group Members
Linda Clark, Facilitator. Ms Clark is a special counsel at law firm Kensington Swan. Prior to her legal career, Ms Clark was a leading political journalist.
Melissa Ansell-Bridges, Equity New Zealand
Michael Brook, Regional Film Offices New Zealand
Craig Dunn, Stunt Guild
Richard Fletcher, Screen Production and Development Association
Brendan Keys, Weta Digital
Alex Lee, Film Auckland
Sioux Macdonald, Screen Industry Guild
Paul Mackay, BusinessNZ
Barrie Osborne, Producer
Tui Ruwhiu, Directors and Editors Guild
Alice Shearman, New Zealand Writers Guild
Erina Tamepo, Ng Aho Whakaari
Richard Wagstaff, New Zealand Council of Trade Unions
Iain Lees-Galloway is Workplace Relations and Safety Minister of New Zealand.
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Photo Caption:
Linda Clark
(Picture Courtesy: The National Business Review)
