Arjay, I have worked in small business (in one at the moment) where I had to sack an unsatisfactory employee. And I've had an ex employee who claimed unfair dismissal, which didn't get past conciliation as he had no legs to stand on. I can see your point about how hard it is with small business, (and not only about hiring and firing) but to call a small business less than 100 employees is a bit rich. It will be extremely easy for larger employers to loophole this change and branch off into smaller companies so the "business", no matter how big, can come under this umbrella. Calling anything a "fair go" does not make it necessarily so. When this govt starts cleaning up the big end of town and all the rorts and the obscene wages/payouts, then I'll start to consider whether they have the little guy's interests at heart.

David, I don't think I make a habit out of defending Fiona. WHatever your opinion is of her opinion, don't be so snide about it.
Cheers,

Well i am a employee and I am scared. I have been employed the past 6 years with same company of a 130 people (75 permanents). I have had a couple of run ins with management because of their workplace bullying tactics. Thankfully we have a union. If these laws are abolished my job is gone and others for sure with out a dout. My wife and I are very worried as how we will cope with the mortgage, not to mention the stress and pressure that will be placed on myself at work and home. I feal dark days are ahead :(