Union allegations ‘false’

Press, 17 May 1984, Page 3

Union allegations ‘false’

Allegations that freezing workers had suffered a progressive erosion of wages and conditions, particularly through the introduction of new technology, were totally false, said the general manager (operations) of Waitaki N.Z. Refrigerating, Ltd, Mr J. M. Ryan, yesterday.

“As a representative of themeat company which had taken a leading role in the introduction of new technology, I can state categorically that new technology introduced by Waitaki had not only created further

work opportunities but had also preserved the ability of individual workers to at least retain their customary level of earnings,” he said. Mr Ryan said that unti cost improvements were being achieved by increased efficiencies, not by reduced wages.

The comments by Mr Ryan were prompted by a statement from the secretary of the New Zealand Meat Workers’ Union, Mr A. J. Kennedy, on tuesday, that claimed that wages and condtions were being eroded.

“The main reason why some workers’ earnings have been eroded this season lies with the Meat Workers’ Union whose opposition to the introduction of technology ad the bans and restrictions they imposed deprived their members of earning opportunities,” Mr Ryan said.

He also warned that the union’s attitude to the acceptance of technology could reduce work opportunities and possibly lead to plant closings. “More than for years ago my company appealed to the union to co-operate with us in the orderly introduction of new technology and assured them that if they did so we woulld be prepared to guarantee that no employee of our company would lose their employment as a result of technological change. “That hallmark offer was made in the genuine belief that it would encourage the Meat Workers’ Union to adopt a more positive stance in their relationships with us.

“It is, therefore, regrettable to say the least, to witness the continuing frustrations and impediments they place in our way. “Their negative industrial attitudes can only work to the detriment of their members,” Mr Ryan said.