The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions (CTU) has released its submission on the proposed Zero Carbon Bill, which includes the survey responses of nearly 700 union members and supporters.

CTU secretary Sam Huggard said he is heartened by the strong level of interest from working people in climate law, and that their views are very clear.

“Working people very much want to be formally represented as part of the transition to a sustainable economy,” he said. “94% think that this needs to be a central part of the shift, and 93% think the impact on working people’s costs, jobs and incomes is important to specifically include in climate law.”

Huggard noted union members very strongly endorse the Just Transitions programmes CTU is proposing to the coalition government. They want a comprehensive law that covers all emissions, as well as an inclusive process with as much advance notice as possible.

“They have lots of great ideas to contribute - like developing a community consultation process based on the Christchurch post-earthquake experiences,” he added. “We look forward to working with the Government on the draft laws, and certainly hope to be represented on the Climate Change Commission to be announced next year.”

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