Media Release
Tuesday, 6 November 2001

Union Conference tackles GE

The Service & Food Workers Union is holding its 2001 Delegates Conferences in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch over the next three weeks.

The Auckland Conference kicks off tomorrow with a varied agenda that includes: an assessment of the Employment Relations Act; an exploration of workers rights as human rights including the right to Paid Parental Leave; and discussion and planning around campaigning and activism.

Delegates will also be asked to vote on a GE remit submitted by members, which reads… ‘That the Service & Food Workers Union actively oppose genetic engineering in food and crop production.’

“It is low income workers who are the most affected by genetic modification”, said Ms Darien Fenton, National Secretary of the SFWU. “And we are pleased to be the first union in New Zealand to be formally considering this issue.”

“They don’t have the luxury of being able to afford highly priced organic produce.”

“Our members will chose the cheapest option in their shopping”, said Ms Fenton. “And often it is the budget brands, riddled with genetically modified ingredients, that get bought.”

“Our members need to know the food they eat is safe.”

Helen Clark will speak to the Auckland Conference at 2.30pm tomorrow, Wednesday, 7th November.

Ros Noonan, Human Rights Commissioner, will speak to the Conference on Thursday, 8th November at 9am.

The SFWU Northern Region Delegates Conference venue is Alexandra Park Raceway, Greenlane West. (Members Stand, 4th Floor, Function Rooms.)

For further information contact Ms Darien Fenton – (0274) 360 089 (day) or (09) 810 9226 (evening).

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