Discussions at CMP Rangitikei

Discussions at CMP Rangitikei

News Release
14 November 2011

Issued by CMP Rangitikei

Discussions are continuing between the lamb processing company CMP Rangitikei and the NZ Meat Workers’ Union.

“There have been various reports saying the new Individual Employment Agreements (IEAs) signed by over 200 employees and the company would result in wage cuts of between 20% and 40%.This is simply not the case,” said plant manager Darryl MacKenzie.

While there will be a drop in rates, Mr MacKenzie says the effects on an individual’s weekly gross wage will range from a drop of 6% to an increase of 15% under the new contract. The variances are dependant on job and grade.

“We do recognise that employees are, in the interests of lifting productivity, now working 40 hours a week during the peak season instead of 35,” he said.

“The new rates are in line with industry averages, we certainly don’t want to cut them any lower than we have to. We are asking employees to take these cuts now so that we can ensure the viability of the plant and not have any job losses.”

The union-organised picket continues at the plant alongside State Highway One, and CMP Rangitikei has increasing concerns over safety.

“We are concerned, because the plant’s entrance is on a busy main road.

“The police are doing a great job at managing peoples’ safety,” said Mr Mackenzie.

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