Kristine Bartlett

Bartlett in 2018

Kristine Bartlett is a notable figure in New Zealand for her significant contributions to the field of labor rights and gender equality in the workplace. Her landmark case against her employer, TerraNova Homes & Care, led to a historic decision in 2013 that has had a profound impact on the way pay equity is approached in New Zealand, particularly in sectors traditionally dominated by female workers.

Background

Kristine Bartlett worked as a caregiver for over 20 years at TerraNova Homes & Care, a residential care facility. Despite her extensive experience, Bartlett's remuneration was close to the minimum wage, a reflection of the broader issue of undervaluation of care work, predominantly performed by women. This led Bartlett to challenge her employer with the support of her union, E tū, arguing that her low wages were a result of gender discrimination.

The Case

The case, Bartlett v TerraNova Homes & Care Ltd, was first brought to the Employment Court of New Zealand in 2013. Bartlett argued that the work of care workers, being predominantly female, was undervalued and that this constituted a breach of the Equal Pay Act 1972. The Employment Court ruled in her favor, stating that employees could make a claim for equal pay for work of equal value, even if there were no male comparators in their specific workplace.

The decision was appealed several times, with the case eventually reaching the Supreme Court of New Zealand. In 2015, the Supreme Court upheld the lower courts' decisions, affirming the right to equal pay for work of equal value, not just the same work. This landmark ruling set a precedent for how pay equity claims should be approached, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the value of work in a gender-neutral manner.

Impact

The case led to significant legislative and social changes in New Zealand. In response to the ruling, the New Zealand government initiated the Joint Working Group on Pay Equity Principles, which proposed recommendations for addressing and preventing gender-based pay disparities. This culminated in the enactment of the Equal Pay Amendment Act 2020, which streamlined the process for making pay equity claims.

Kristine Bartlett's case has also inspired a broader movement for pay equity across various sectors, leading to increased awareness and subsequent claims from female-dominated industries seeking redress for historical pay inequities.

Recognition

For her courage and determination in fighting for equal pay, Kristine Bartlett has received numerous accolades, including being named the New Zealander of the Year in 2018. Her case is often cited as a pivotal moment in the fight for gender equality in the workplace, not only in New Zealand but also as an example for other countries grappling with similar issues.

See Also

• Equal Pay Act 1972 (New Zealand)
• Gender equality
• Labor rights
• E tū union

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