Greg Warren MPAnother Insult to Frontline Workers in Workers in west and South Western Sydney
NSW Labor have condemned the NSW Liberals for stripping workers
compensation protections for workers throughout the state – including in
West and South Western Sydney.
On Wednesday the 24th of November, the Workers Compensation
Amendment Bill 2021 passed through the Legislative Assembly by one vote
– despite being opposed by Labor and crossbench MPs.
The bill, which repeals Section 19B of the Workers Compensation Act and
removes a critical safety net for workers – will be further debated in the
Legislative Council (upper house).
NSW Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations, Work Health and Safety,
Sophie Cotsis MP, said it was another insult for workers in West and South
Western Sydney who were still reeling from the government’s
discriminatory harsh lockdown.
“We are all aware how much the NSW Liberals value West and South
Western Sydney,” Ms Cotsis said.
“That was never more evident that when the NSW Liberals ignored the
advice of the Chief Health Officer and created a two-tiered city.
“Now they have pushed through legislation that aims to remove protection
for workers – like those on the frontline in the fight against COVID-19.
“Proving you have contracted the virus at work can be a legally challenging,
stressful task - particularly for those in frontline teachers, transport and
service professions that are at higher risk of exposure every day.
“This is a fundamental betrayal of the workers who literally put their lives on
the line for us in the midst of the pandemic and who continue to do so.”
Shadow Minister for Western Sydney, Greg Warren MP, said this was
another hit to hard working families in the West and South West of Sydney.
“This is simply rubbing salt on an already weeping wound,” Mr Warren said.
“It is clear this government does not view residents in West and South
Western Sydney as equals.
“NSW Labor will continue to fight for residents in the West and South West
of Sydney because it’s clear the NSW Liberals refuse to do so.
“It has never been more obvious that this government has one set of rules
for the west and another set for the rest.”