FED: PM gets ticking off from Santas over entitlements

AAP General News (Australia)
12-15-2003
FED: PM gets ticking off from Santas over entitlements

Six Santas have marched on the prime minister's Sydney residence demanding full protection
of workers' entitlements.

The six transport workers in full Santa suits marched on Kirribilli House carrying
sacks labelled JOHN HOWARD'S EMPTY PROMISES.

A group of about 50 joined them on their march, including members of the Transport
Union Choir who led a Christmas carol session at the gates.

One of the Santas, former Ansett worker DAVID LUPTON, says 100 per cent of workers'
entitlements should be protected by the government.

Mr LUPTON says employers who misuse workers' entitlements should face harsher penalties.

The Transport Worker's Union wants a scheme set up to safeguard workers' entitlements
and guarantee full payouts in cases where companies have failed to meet their responsibilities.

Mr LUPTON says Ansett workers are also angry that more than $90 million of the Ansett
ticket levy will be used by the government to upgrade airport security.

AAP RTV apw/nf/jas/rp

KEYWORD: SANTA (SYDNEY)

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