“Trade Unions Integral Part Of N.Z. Economy”

Press, Volume C, Issue 29638, 7 October 1961, Page 15

“Trade Unions Integral Part Of N.Z. Economy”

Whether or not it was liked, the trade union movement was an integral part of New Zealand’s society and economy. It had reached its present place because of the industrial stability through an intelligent interpretation of the Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act, Mr R Jones said yesterday. Mr Jones has retired as secretary of the Canterbury branch of the Engineers’ and Related Trades Union after holding that office since 1945 Before that he was union organiser for 10 years:

Mr Jones said that with all the controversy about voluntary unionism it should not be imagined that the compulsory unionism clause in .the act was the sole reason for New Zealand’s relative freedom from industrial strife. The clause only allowed a better working of the act. It was unfortunate tha’ compulsory unionism had become a political football Only harm could come from tampering with legislation ’hat had worked well for 25 years.

The attitude of most employers should not be forgotten when industrial harmony was discussed, said Mr Jones. Ninety per cent, of employers were prepared to discuss day-to-day matters with him. “I have nothing but thanks for them,” he said.

Apprentices’ Training Mr Jones, who has taken part in training apprentices since 1927, said one of the

most important decisions made by the Court of Arbitration occurred this year when in the mechanics’ award margins for skill were re-established. It was noticeable in the engineering industry that skilled men were leaving because they could earn more money as labourers. The Court’s decision could help stoo that trend.

Mr Jones did not consider that automation would become a force in industry for many years, if ever. The high cost of establishing automation meant that an assured market had to be found for the products for at least 10 rears, he said In view of New Zealand's lack of large industries it was unlikely a manufacturer could find such guaranteed markets to cover redemption and make profits 6120 Members The engineers’ union, which was established in 1874, is the oldest and biggest union in Canterbury—it has 6120 members—and Mr Jones is oroud that during his term there had been only one strike.

“The union has always impressed on its officials that service was more important than the question of position. As a result the standard of the 56 awards which the union administers is among the highest in New Zealand for conditions and minimum wages,” said Mr Jones.

Mr G. W Scott, who has been union organiser for the last 10 years, will succeed Mr Jones.