The repeal means that all sheltered workshops will have to pay everyone they employ at least the minimum wage, unless individual workers have an exemption. Workers who are significantly and demonstrably limited in their work can be issued with a minimum wage exemption permit by Department of Labour inspectors.

These permits reflect the individual contribution and skills of the worker through the use of wage assessment tools; either that of the workshop itself or the tool developed by the New Zealand Federation of Vocational and Support Services.

It will also mean that all people who work in sheltered workshops will have access to holiday and sick leave entitlements.

This change was a long time coming. It took us two years longer to repeal the Act than we thought it would. This delay was to large extent due to those people who could not see the Act for what it was: a piece of obviously discriminatory legislation that was contrary to international human rights and the values of New Zealanders.

The Repeal of the old Act takes effect on 30 September and is part of a package of wider changes by our government to improve employment opportunities for disabled people. It includes increasing the placements of disabled people into employment, providing wider access to supported employment services for disabled people and the development of transition from school services.

I am very proud to have had a part in improving the employment rights of disabled New Zealanders, and I thank everyone who contributed to this fight, over many years.

Ruth Dyson
Minister for Disability Issues