Victory for Wellington Airport caterers
30 May, 2016.
PRESS RELEASE
Victory for Wellington Airport caterers as Delaware North dumps youth rates demand
A roaring chorus of “Yes!” erupted from the Delaware North kitchen at Wellington Airport this afternoon after US-owned Delaware North abandoned its bid for youth rates.
Catering workers at the airport last week voted to strike over the issue, saying people who do the same work should get the same pay.
Pay talks have been stalled since December after workers refused to back down.
With the exception of Wishbone, Mojo and Fuel, Delaware North runs all the catering concessions at the airport.
Today, the company announced it has withdrawn its claim for youth rates, or the Starting-Out Wage as it is known, so negotiations of members’ collective contract can recommence.
E tū organiser, Daele O’Connor says when she told workers the good news, there was a roar of approval from the kitchen.
“They are rapt their employer has folded.”
Daele says workers deserved congratulations and commendation for their courage to vote for strike action against youth rates.
“It’s been the threat of action that’s forced their employer to back down. Members have shown they have the power to effect change.”
ENDS