Workers still picketing at Steel and Tube NZ

Workers at Steel and Tube sites across New Zealand are still taking industrial action to demand fair treatment and genuine bargaining from their employer.

Today, workers are on the picket line at the Steel and Tube sites in Blenheim Road, Christchurch and Cryers Road, Mt Wellington. The industrial action has been taking place since February.

“Workers just want a fair deal but they’re up against a boss who simply won’t budge,” says Steve Westoby, the EPMU advocate for Steel and Tube workers.

“They want everyone on the job to be treated equally, and to prevent their work conditions being eroded.”

Steel and Tube management have refused to sign a collective agreement unless workers agree to grandparent their current hours and days of work – meaning new workers could employed on lesser wages and conditions.

EPMU members have agreed to enter mediation, but the company has continued to put them off.

“Steel and Tube just aren’t interested in working things out,” says Steve Westoby. “Our members are in this for the long haul because they know they deserve better treatment.”

ENDS

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