RISES IN AWARD

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32306, 26 May 1970, Page 16

RISES IN AWARD

Many New Rates Increases of up to 32.5 per cent have been won by the New Zealand Engine Drivers’, Firemen’s and Greasers’ Union in a new award negotiated in conciliation in Wellington last week. The term of the award is 12 months and the increases will apply from the first pay-day after June 30. The secretary of the Canterbury branch of the union (Mr W. W. Beaton) said yesterday that some city workers were already receiving more than the new rates, but most workers in smaller centres were on the award rate and would receive the full benefit of the increases.

The weekly pay of a firstclass engine driver will go from $38.80 to $51.20, and that of a second-class worker from $37.40 to $4B. Men in a new classification, covering boiler attendants who have just gained their steam ticket, will receive $45.20, and uncertificated firemen and greasers will rise from 88c an hour to $l.OB. Hospital workers will go on to the same rates; since they receive a premium at present this means their increases will be less. However, they will now receive shift money on all shifts.

Mr Beaton said that members would now be paid according to their own classification rather than the horsepower of the boilers they ran.