Maritime Union of New Zealand media release

Union will continue to negotiate over Napier jobs

Thursday 8 November 2007

The Maritime Union of New Zealand is going to continue with negotiations at the Port of Napier despite describing the result of an initial meeting today as unsatisfactory.

Maritime Union General Secretary Trevor Hanson says a meeting today between the Union and Port of Napier management did not resolve the situation over jobs.

"The Union is not backing down on its position to protect secure local jobs, however both parties are keeping lines of communication open."

Mr Hanson says the Union will consult with its national executive before continuing with negotiations.

"If we can't get a solution through negotiation, which we prefer, we will have to consider what form of industrial action will be taken around the country and if necessary with international unions."

The Port of Napier has awarded a container stevedoring contract to out of town company ISO who are a notorious anti-union employer.

25 permanent jobs and 60 casual jobs at Hawkes Bay Stevedoring Services are in jeopardy as a result.

ENDS

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