Minister Van Velden Faces Criticism Over Farm Child Labor Consultations

New Zealand’s Minister for Workplace Relations, Brooke van Velden, has raised concerns that some farmers believe it is illegal for their children to collect eggs from chickens. This statement comes as she defends the government’s decision to initiate a consultation process regarding regulations governing child labor on farms. The consultation will be conducted by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and will run until September 2023.

The current regulations, outlined in the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016, prohibit workers under the age of 15 from engaging in activities related to the “manufacture or preparation of goods for trade or sale” or any work that may pose health and safety risks. Violations of these regulations can result in fines of up to $50,000.

Critics of Minister van Velden’s remarks include David Birkett, the health and safety spokesperson for Federated Farmers, who stated he has not encountered any concerns within the rural community regarding children collecting eggs. Birkett emphasized that the farming sector generally supports the involvement of children in certain agricultural activities, provided safety measures are observed.

The reaction from the political opposition has been swift, with various MPs condemning the Minister’s actions as an “over-reach.” They argue that the government’s focus should be on practical solutions for farmers rather than introducing regulations that could hinder traditional practices.

In response to the growing debate, Minister van Velden reiterated the importance of child safety in the workplace and the need for clear guidelines. She stated that the consultation aims to gather input from farmers, parents, and other stakeholders to ensure regulations reflect the realities of rural life while prioritizing safety.

The consultation will explore various aspects of child labor on farms, including the types of work children can undertake and the age at which they can be involved in farming activities. The Minister hopes that the outcomes will provide a balanced approach that protects children without unduly restricting family farming practices.

As discussions continue, the government faces the challenge of addressing both the safety concerns raised by regulations and the traditions of farming families who rely on the participation of younger generations in daily agricultural tasks.