Hawke's Bay educators join national movement for pay equity

Mana Taurite pay equity means equal pay for work of equal value, which is different from the issue of equal pay for the same job. Photo / NZPA

Educators all over the country are joining a growing movement for action on pay equity and equality for women, with Fair's Fair Mana Taurite events today.

People from all industries and professions are expected to attend the Hastings-based event, where a presentation to Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst will take place.

NZEI Te Riu Roa President Lynda Stuart said it was important to keep the issue of pay equity in the spotlight and send a public message to the Government that New Zealanders wanted a fair go for every worker in every industry and sector.

NZEI Te Riu Roa is currently pursuing pay equity claims for a number of female-dominated groups of members – support workers employed through the Ministry of Education, support staff in schools (teacher aides, and administration staff) and early childhood education teachers.

"We know parents and our local community value the work that these educators do, and this day is about getting out and showing that," said Lynda Stuart.

St Matthew's Primary School support staff teacher aide Suzanne Rogers said it was important to keep the issue of pay equity in the spotlight and send a public message to the Government that New Zealanders wanted a fair go for every worker in every industry and sector.

"We know parents and our local community want us to be valued, and this day is about getting out and showing that," said Suzanne.

The education workers are connecting under the Mana Taurite banner with all women who are fighting for pay equity.

Mana Taurite pay equity means equal pay for work of equal value, which is different from the issue of equal pay for the same job.

"Pay is usually low for everyone working in female-dominated jobs because of the historic undervaluation of women and caring/education roles," Ms Rogers said.

"We believe everyone should be paid fairly for their skills and responsibilities, regardless of gender."

The Ministry of Education Deputy Secretary Early Learning & Student Achievement, Ellen MacGregor-Reid, said NZEI represents a large number of women in the Education workforce, and advocates for pay equity on their behalf.

She said current claims from NZEI for pay equity for ministry-employed support workers, and teacher aides employed by school boards of trustees are being addressed jointly by the ministry and the NZEI.

"The claims are being addressed by the NZEI and the ministry using the Government-approved pay equity principles developed by the Joint Working Group on Pay Equity Principles."

The event will take place at the Hastings Centre Stage beginning at 11am and culminate in a short walk to Albert Square.

For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/362394730920247/