Toll Holdings Threatens Industrial Peace

MEDIA RELEASE
03 June 2004

Toll Holdings Threatens Industrial Peace on Ferries and Auckland Rail

''Toll Holdings’ clumsy industrial relations is jeopardising both inter-island ferry services and Auckland rail services,'' Council of Trade Unions president Ross Wilson said today.

“Wading in with unilateral roster changes on the ferry and attacking the biggest multi-employer collective agreement in New Zealand all in one week is either a deliberate move to provoke industrial disputes or a heavy-handed Aussie approach to industrial relations,” Ross Wilson said.

Toll Holdings must accept the blame for threatening inter-island services over Queens Birthday weekend.

“Trying to introduce controversial roster changes the week before a holiday weekend is irresponsible to say the least.

“Similarly, the decision to challenge the right of Auckland rail workers to remain under their existing collective agreement demonstrates a complete disregard for their rights and the integrity of the agreement which Toll Holdings took over from Tranz Rail.”

Australian industrial bully boy tactics were not welcome in New Zealand, Ross Wilson said. “They are picking on a loyal workforce which has already been through a rough time with other foreign owners.”

ENDS

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