REQUEST FOR WAGE RISE

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 79, 27 May 1944, Page 5

REQUEST FOR WAGE RISE

AUCKLAND FREEZING WORKERS Auckland. May 26. Applications for a substantial wage increase for all hands engaged in the freezing industry in the Auckland district and other concessions were made to-day to the respective employers by the Auckland Freezing Workers’ Union. Copies of the demands were received by the Auckland Farmers’ Freezing Company Ltd., and R. and W. Hellaby Ltd., and the union’s official letter asked that the employers forward their decision not later than 14 days from the date of notification. The union requests that all workers be granted a 30 per cent, increase in wages and be paid double time for work on Saturdays. Payment for travelling time and fares for all employees living more than U miles distant from their employment is also sought and other requests are that increments to female workers be paid at three-monthly intervals instead of six-monthly and that the minimum wage for female employees be payable at the age of 21 instead of 23, as at present. No comment was offered by representatives of the firms, but it is understood that the union’s application will be considered by them at an early date. More than 3000 employees are concerned in the application. At present a 44-hour week is worked in the industry, including Saturday mornings, and request for overtime payment for those days is said to be tantamount to a request for a 40-hour week.—P.A.