In 1856 Victorian stonemasons won an eight-hour working day, a world first in the struggle for improved working conditions and a fair split between work, rest and play.At the launch of celebrations of the 150th anniversary of this milestone, Victorian Women's Affairs and Arts Minister Mary Delahunty said dividing work and family time was still the biggest challenge facing workers.
"The 150th anniversary of the Eight Hour Day campaign provides an opportunity to look at work practices and pressures and how we can get a better balance," Ms Delahunty said.
"As increasing numbers of workers clock up 50 hour weeks, working parents try to fit school pick ups, shopping, house work and child care into their demanding working lives and more people are complaining about the pressures this balancing act creates."
"150 years after the stonemasons' achievement of the eight-hour day, working time is still a major source of tension and conflict and the casualisation of the work force provides little security for families."
No comments:
Post a Comment