A WORKERS’ representative disputes claims reducing Sunday penalty rates will create employment on the Border.
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Bernie Smith, NSW secretary of the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees' Association, said the Productivity Commission’s recommendation to bring Sunday and Saturday rates in line would have a devastating effect on regional economies.
The association estimated retail and hospitality workers in the Farrer electorate would lose up to $15.8 million a year if penalty rates were partially cut, with the region to face a loss of up to $7.7 million a year in disposable income.
Mr Smith said regional businesses that now closed on Sundays chose to do so.
“Where there's no demand, they don't open,” he said.
“I hope all your readers spare a thought for all those retail and hospitality workers who are working so hard … post-Christmas serving the community while we're all having fun with our family and friends.
“Somebody's serving them who's given up time with their family and friends to be there. They deserve to be paid a bit extra but that bit extra goes back into the local economy.”
