Concern over proposed changes to IR laws

A Western Australian union says it is concerned proposed changes to the State's industrial relations laws will adversely affect workers.

The Government has introduced a draft bill it says will modernise the state's IR system and bring parts of it into line with Federal legislation.

The Premier Colin Barnett insists the changes will not leave low paid workers worse off.

But Meredith Hammett from Unions WA says she remains sceptical.

"We're concerned that maybe that's just spin," she said.

"Barnett is on the record as saying he doesn't support penalty rates for low-paid workers, and clearly if you take away penalty rates from workers in retail and hospitality, you're effectively giving them a cut in their take home pay.

"I think people will be asking themselves whether they can trust the Liberal government on industrial relations."'

Source: ABC News, 15 November 2012