Auckland march in support of MUNZ dockworkers, March 10, 2012
International Transport Workers’ Federation dockers’ section secretary Frank Leys said all the workers wanted was a fair deal, but their requests for job security were not approached in good faith by Ports of Auckland.
He said the dispute was crucial for trade union relations in New Zealand, as proposed changes would mean the next generation of workers would face employment with no security or benefits.
David Clifford, a port worker from Wellington who said he had travelled to Auckland especially for the march, said he was disgusted at the way his fellow workers had been treated by mayor Len Brown and the Ports of Auckland.
”We’re trying to achieve secure jobs for the boys and trying to stop the casualisation of workers in New Zealand. It’s a growing cancer.”
The port announced on Wednesday that 300 striking wharf employees would be made redundant and their jobs contracted out after seven months of contract negotiations failed.