Private PostShops threaten customer service and workers’ pay

The Government’s decision to rush through changes to New Zealand Post’s Deed of Understanding has opened the door to privatisation and job cuts, says the union for postal workers.

New Zealand Post yesterday signalled their intent to begin looking for third-party providers of PostShop services.

“This decision will inevitably lead to lower wages and poorer customer service,” says Joe Gallagher, EPMU postal industry organiser. “It’s another step down the ladder for Kiwi workers and their families, who the government tells us should be benefiting from a ‘rock star economy’.

“We’ve seen exactly this kind of thing happen to postal services in Europe. Private providers put profit first over customer service, professional development and decent pay.

“We call on New Zealand Post to ensure that any contracting out of PostShops guarantees fair wages and conditions for postal workers, and won’t compromise this core public service.”

The EPMU represents over 700 workers in PostShops across New Zealand.

ENDS

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