New industrial relations forum 'will make a massive difference'

Everyone invited to the table says Harmer

A new industrial relations forum could make a ‘massive difference’ to the workplace according to the politician involved.

Trade unions and government have already met to thrash out plans for how the advisory body will work, and hope it can be used to discuss ‘big themes’ relevant to employee/employers relations.

According to Policy and Reform Minister Ray Harmer, these include lessons from Covid-19, improved communication, best practice from other jurisdictions, and health and safety.

Though the move has been welcomed by unions, some, including Debbie Halsall from Unite, have warned government must keep any commitments to working together.

Mr Harmer is hopeful the forum will lead to an improved relationship between the two: