News & Views
ERA Confirms Dismissal Was Justified
The Employment Relations Authority (ERA) recently ruled on a case involving an employee's dismissal on medical grounds.
Datacom Report – Business Outlook
The 2025 Datacom Business Outlook highlights a shift in priorities and threats compared to 2024. Workplace productivity and growth remain top priorities for businesses, while economic uncertainty has emerged as the most significant threat, overtaking its 2024 ranking. Government focus areas have also shifted, with boosting the economy remaining paramount, but export opportunities gaining prominence over climate change.
We Love AI, But…
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and others have changed the way we work, providing efficiency and convenience in a variety of tasks.
When it comes to sensitive matters such as drafting disciplinary letters, relying on AI systems can be a risky move.
Risk mitigation, Restructuring
Restructuring is one of the tools to ensure businesses manage through these challenging economic times.
Managing in Tough Times
The Risks of Getting it Wrong
There are strict requirements regarding consultation, providing relevant information and potential redeployment options before an employer can reach a decision to disestablish positions. It’s not rocket science, but it is reasonably intricate.
If the process is found to be flawed and the outcome predetermined, employers face the risk of a personal grievance (PG) claim for unfair or unjustified dismissal.
The financial risks of a PG are significant. If a claim is successful, the cost includes a minimum of three months pay, compensation for hurt and humiliation and representation costs, let alone the value of time spent by the employer.
Reserve Bank Predictions 2023
Last week Reserve Bank Governor Orr predicted a very difficult year ahead. Recession in 2023 and minimal growth in the first half of 2024. Despite the inflationary pressure, low unemployment figures have been heralded by the government as an indicator that New Zealand is in reasonable shape. Adrian Orr’s message changed that with unemployment – currently 3.3% - predicted to rise to 5.7% in 2025.