Union row stops works

Press, 3 February 1984, Page 1

Union row stops works

PA Invercargill A slaughter-house assistant who refused to join the Meat Workers’ Union caused a walk-out at the Mataura freezing works yesterday. He started work at the Southland Frozen Meat, Ltd, plant on January 23 and should have joined the union after seven days — by Monday. Mr Jack Peek, president of the union’s Mataura subbranch, said the worker had taken advantage of union generosity — the union had decided to wait until he was paid before requiring him to join.

The worker did not join by the time union memberership became voluntary.

Mr Peek said men at the works were upset that the worker had taken advantage of the arrangement to avoid joining the union. “Frankly, if the men had not gone home I would have feared for the young fellow’s safety,” he said. “They were very, very bitter. “I would hate to see something happen to someone over this.” Mr Peek said the union’s board of control met to try to find a solution, and talks were held with the management.

The worker was “reflecting on his position” and Mr Peek expected developments today. “I sincerely hope he changes his mind,” he said. The company’s chief executive, Mr G. O. Poole, who confirmed that the new legislation had caused the stoppage, said he hoped work would resume today.