Press Release: National Distribution Union, Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union

Wednesday, 13 September 2006 12:00pm

Union Action to Stop the Lock Out to Be Heard Tuesday - More Legal Action Coming Say Unions

The Employment Court has set down the NDU and EPMU application for an injunction to stop Progressive's lock out of its distribution workers for a full hearing next Tuesday.

Unions say this case will now take priority over a full hearing of the case alleging the unlawful engagement of replacement labour during the lock out.

"We were pleased the Court was able to adjourn the hearing on the replacement labour issues to allow us to focus our legal resources on trying to get an order that would get the parties back around the table on all issues. The lock out is punishing workers. It aims to prevent them from engaging in good faith collective bargaining for a national agreement as as such we believe it is unlawful," said Laila Harré, NDU National Secretary.

Also due to take a legal route is the union's response to Progressive attempts to undermine collective bargaining by sending a copy of its only offer to the unions directly to union members.

"This is completely out of order and a blatant breach of fundamental obligations not to undermine collective bargaining and not to bargain directly or indirectly with union members. It is nonsense to suggest the union would agree to such a tactic as the company has suggested. What possible benefit could there be to the union in agreeing to something like that?" said Ms Harré.

Union members have already rejected the offer at meetings held in the three areas yesterday.

ENDS

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