Fisher and Paykel and its worker’s union delegates are to resume talks after 1500 workers completed a 24 hour strike vigil.

The strike action outside F&P’s whiteware factory in East Tamaki proved one of the largest picket-lines to be seen in recent years.

Around 1500 workers were on strike after contract negotiations between Engineer's Union delegates and Fisher and Paykel management failed to reach a settlement of wage claim.

The company offered an increase of 3.25 percent this year and the same increase again next year. Union delegates demanded a 5.5 percent rise.

Delegates say many workers at the whiteware factory receive low wages and are facing difficult financial times. They want around an extra $20 per week. They pointed to an increase in returns to the company’s top managers as good reason for workers to also receive a return from company profits.

The action is the first on a large scale for Fisher and Paykel, the company has a long tradition of excellent staff and management relations.

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