Press Statement -

Ministry of Fisheries For Immediate Release

19 December 2007

Details of fisheries industrial action unknown

The effects of threatened industrial action by Fishery Officers over the Christmas / New Year period will not be known until next week, says Ministry of Fisheries Acting Chief Executive Stan Crothers.

A press release from Public Service Association (PSA) and National Union of Public Employees (NUPE) indicates they are considering a range of industrial actions; and may make a decision on what actions will be taken on Sunday, December 23.

The Ministry of Fisheries has been engaged in bargaining sessions with the PSA and the NUPE since 29 August 2007. While agreement has been reached on approximately two-thirds of the original bargaining claims, there are a number of claims outstanding.

“We are disappointed we were not able to continue discussing the issues and look forward to an early opportunity to re-engage in discussions with the unions,” says Stan Crothers. “The Christmas holidays are a time when many New Zealanders go fishing. Regardless of the precise nature of the industrial action, we will continue to monitor fishing activity over this period.”

The PSA and NUPE gave notice of industrial action at mediation on 18 December 2007.

ENDS

© Scoop Media