The workers, who include supermarket and factory staff and are members of the National Distribution Union (NDU), attended a meeting in Dunedin to discuss proposed changes to the Employment Relations and Holiday Acts, which were tabled in Parliament this week, and consider what action to take.
At the 11am meeting at Burns Hall, near First Church, they also opposed a private member's Bill being introduced by National Party MP Jacqui Dean, to allow retailers in her Waitaki electorate to trade on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
NDU southern region secretary Paul Watson, of Christchurch, who chaired the meeting, said the union members were "very concerned" about a series of Government workplace proposals, including removal of unjustified dismissal protection during the first 90 days of employment; requiring a doctor's note, if sought by the employer, for any day of sickness; and restrictions on access by union representatives to worksites.
A delegation would approach Dunedin National list MP Michael Woodhouse to discuss the issues, Mr Watson said.
Many of those attending the meeting were also likely to attend the "Fairness at Work" protest march, which would leave from the University of Otago School of Dentistry at 11am on Sunday, and travel via George St to the Octagon, organisers said.
