New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Condemns Te Roopu Taurima's Cruel Response to Low-Level Strike Action

Strategic Insights -

The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi has voiced strong condemnation of Te Roopu Taurima o Manukau Trust's decision to suspend 38 workers and PSA members without pay, amidst a protracted dispute over employment conditions. The NZCTU's President, Richard Wagstaff, called on the Trust to lift the suspensions and return to negotiations, highlighting that responding to low-level strike action by suspending workers for six weeks is an extraordinarily cruel action that has no place in employment relations in New Zealand. The suspensions come after a history of worker mistreatment, including a partial lockout before Christmas, and the refusal by Te Roopu Taurima to accept an independent recommended settlement by the Employment Relations Authority.

Key Takeaways:

  • Te Roopu Taurima has suspended 38 workers and PSA members without pay, sparking widespread condemnation from the NZCTU.
  • The suspensions come after protracted mistreatment of workers, including a partial lockout before Christmas.
  • The dispute centers around Te Roopu Taurima's attempts to introduce 90-day trials, restrictions on secondary employment, and keep wages low.
  • The NZCTU has expressed solidarity with the suspended workers and the PSA in their fight for decent pay and conditions.
  • Te Roopu Taurima has been accused of bullying and intimidation of workers, with the NZCTU calling for an end to such practices.

Statistics:

  • 38 workers and PSA members have been suspended without pay by Te Roopu Taurima.
  • The suspensions are in response to low-level strike action, with workers demanding better employment conditions.
  • 90-day trials, restrictions on secondary employment, and low wages are at the center of the dispute.
  • Wages are a major issue, with workers seeking to address what the NZCTU describes as "wages low".

Sources:

  • The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi
  • Te Roopu Taurima o Manukau Trust
  • PSA (Public Service Association)
  • Employment Relations Authority