Ports of Auckland braces for December strikes
Maritime Union says it will strike twice during December; company says action will cause the loss of $1.6 million revenue.
Ports of Auckland has received a strike notice from the Maritime Union, which is threatening disruption in the run-up to Christmas.
The strike follows a breakdown in collective bargaining talks.
Chief executive Tony Gibson said the two threatened strikes could cost his company $1.6 million, and lead to four ships being diverted.
The proposed strike will affect the Fergusson and Bledisloe container terminals and associated road and rail services at the Waitemata seaport for two 24 hour periods over December 1 and 2 and December 4 and 5.
Ports of Auckland’s most recent offer to the union involved rolling over the expired CEA with no changes to terms and conditions, a $200 signing payment to recognise backpay and a 2.5% increase to hourly rates, in line with CPI changes, the company said in a statement.
“In recent months we have seen a willingness across the organisation to work together to achieve further improvements. We respect and care for our workforce and recognise that significant productivity gains have already been achieved.”
Ports of Auckland’s multi-cargo wharves, cruise business, vehicle import trade, marine services, Onehunga seaport and Wiri Inland Port are not affected by the proposed strike. The proposed action involves 327 employees out of a total of 580.
“The run-up to Christmas is a particularly busy time for us. This strike action will be hugely disruptive and costly, and will have a very negative effect on local exporters, importers and ultimately consumers,” Mr Gibson said.
NBR staff
Fri, 18 Nov 2011
Fri, 18 Nov 2011
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Ports of Auckland braces for December strikes
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