Meeting could avert strike

Press, 2 December 1989, Page 10

Meeting could avert strike

By

PAM MORTON

Threatened industrial action by harbour workers could be averted if a meeting tomorrow between the union and employers goes well. The union gave 14 days notice of industrial action last week after what it said was lack of progress in award talks. The secretary of the union’s Lyttelton branch, Mr Paul Corliss, said yesterday that employers were approached by the union on Thursday with a new proposal. “It sets down a path and guiding principles to get things

under way. It depends on the employers now.” The employers' advocate, Mr Keith Binnie, said employers had asked the union to lift the notice of industrial action and to meet them in conciliation. He said talks would be held tomorrow in Wellington. Employers would put an amended position to the union in the hope of settling the dispute. The harbour workers’ award expired at the end of August. Previous talks stalled over industry restructuring and moves by employers to impose the same hours and conditions as those

agreed to recently by members of the Waterfront Workers’ Union.

Workers believe they could lose financially if they are made to work the same hours as watersiders.

Another sticking point is the 4 per cent wage increase offered by employers. The union seeks a 6 per cent increase. Mr Corliss said the union would not left the notice of industrial action at this stage.

“We are hopeful of a settlement. Obviously we would rather not resort to industrial action," he said.