Protest by timber workers

Press, 20 February 1988, Page 3

Protest by timber workers

Four big trucks, including two massive Kenworths, gave impact to an otherwise modest protest march by timber workers through central Christchurch yesterday. About 160 people took part in the march, organised by the Canterbury branch of the New Zealand Timber Workers' Union, with the support of the Canterbury Clerical Workers’ Union and the Full Employment Campaign. The march was in protest against Government policies, the message carried on banners attacking high interest rates and the high dollar value. The more pointed placards demanded “Roger Douglas must resign now,” “Nationalise Fletcher Challenge,” "Anderton for P.M.” and “It’s class war time.” Protest messages were handed out, asking people to post them to the Prime Minister. Other leaflets were distributed, claiming that the timber industry has made record profits in the last 12 months yet more than 2000 timber workers had lost jobs in the same period. The leaflets also publicised the Full Employment Campaign, which is being supported by numerous trade unions, political and community organisations, and individuals. The campaign plans a “week of action” next month, culminating in a rally in Cathedral Square on March 18. Yesterday’s rally, however, was a subdued affair. Having marched from the Armagh Street gates of Hagley Park, the protesters gathered only briefly in the Square, then dispersed after a few words of thanks and a reminder to support next month’s rally. “It was over far too quickly,” said one marcher. A small procession of timber workers also marched along Rangiora’s High Street yesterday. The march was timed to coincide with the march in Christchurch.