Baggage handlers in Auck to strike

Baggage handlers in Auck to strike

Ground staff servicing Emirates, Singapore, Cathay Pacific, Pacific Blue and other international airlines will walk off the job for seven days from midnight tonight (Weds).

Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union national secretary Andrew Little said that the 80 Auckland workers from Menzies Aviation were disappointed and frustrated that their collective employment agreement hadn’t been settled, despite weeks of negotiations.

The workers are seeking pay rises to bring their wages in line with similar workers.

“We are talking about skilled workers – many of whom currently earn less than $12 an hour,” he said.

“We think that someone with three years’ experience should, by next year, be paid more than $15 an hour.”

Mr Little said that the workers had stood by the company during lean times by accepting low pay rates.

“These people have showed their loyalty and commitment to this company and deserve fair treatment,” he said.

Meanwhile, a strike by Mt Cook baggage handlers at Queenstown airport continues. Fifty-five workers have been on strike since last Friday in support of a five per cent pay claim.

Mr Little said that informal talks were scheduled for tomorrow.

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