18th July 2002

Union Blacklisting Puts Lives At Risk

Lives and property have been put at risk by union blacklisting, says National's Fire Services spokesperson Lindsay Tisch.

Mr Tisch says that union firefighters at Waitemata station in Auckland have refused to work with non-union firefighters, meaning the station is unable to respond to callouts.

"Today we've seen the first consequence of this dangerous bullying, with the station unable to respond to a call for help this morning.

"It is totally unacceptable for community safety to be put at risk by union strong-arm tactics.

"The tactics of the NZPDU are causing serious disruption to the fire service in Auckland. Two non-union firemen were arbitrarily moved from their Silverdale station earlier this week because of union pressure, and there is now talk that the union may withdraw their services from other stations.

"The union is blackmailing management, and getting away with it. The Fire Service has a responsibility to its employees, and the community, whom it is failing to protect. What is worse is that the Government is condoning this action," Mr Tisch said.

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