11 Jun 2015

Ministry's appeal 'shows lack of respect'

5:20 pm on 11 June 2015

A woman who fought for the minimum wage for home care relief workers says it is insulting the Health Ministry is appealing against a decision by the Employment Court.

Janet Lowe worked as a support carer and argued that the $3 an hour subsidy she received was insufficient.

In March, a landmark decision by the Employment Court paved the way for tens of thousands of relief workers to receive the minimum wage and holidays, instead of the $3 an hour subsidy.

The Court of Appeal has now granted the ministry leave to appeal against the decision.

Ms Lowe said she could not understand why health authorities would pursue this case further, saying relief workers already feel undervalued.

"I think it just shows their lack of recognition, lack of respect. We're just numbers, we're not people who do things and give ourselves to the people we work with, and do the best - it's just a numbers game."

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