Media Release - NZ Meat Workers Union
28 February 2012
Talley’s Affco break down bargaining
The Meat Workers union was astounded at mediation today when the bargaining team from Tallies confirmed they were not at
mediation to bargain a new collective agreement, but simply to meet the requirements of the Employment Relations Act to
meet when a lockout notice has been issued.
Talley’s have issued a notice to the Meat Workers Union for an indefinite lockout of over 700 workers from tomorrow in
order to introduce new provisions in the collective agreement. The company acknowledge this would give them the ability
to unilaterally reduce workers pay without agreement.
Meat Workers Union National Secretary Dave Eastlake expressed dismay that these workers are being treated this way “by a
wholly owned New Zealand company that is dominant in the New Zealand food sector.”
“Our members will really suffer in the weeks of this lockout and the company is showing no respect for how hard they
work and how loyal they are” Dave Eastlake said.
“We are now left with no choice but to organise a campaign targeting this company and calling on the people of New
Zealand to support us to get a fair deal,” Dave Eastlake said.
The union position presented in the bargaining today is attached.
ENDS