Waitangi Day Mondayisation Flaunted by Large Employer of Maori
One of the first companies to flaunt the first ever Mondayising of Waitangi day law is a large employer of Maori in the
North Island, says the NZ Meat Workers Union.
Under law changes agreed by Parliament in 2013, where Waitangi Day falls on a Saturday, as it has this year, the holiday
is observed on a Monday for those who don’t normally work weekends.
At the AFFCO Talley owned meat plant in Rangiuru, the company has resorted to bullying and threats, issuing legal
letters to workers saying they could be disciplined and their union sued for an unlawful strike if workers exercise
their rights to a paid day off tomorrow.
“The Holidays Act is clear. Employers cannot require workers to work a public holiday unless there is provision in their
employment agreement. The AFFCO Talley’s expired collective agreement has no such provision” says Darien Fenton, NZMWU
Director of Organising.
“AFFCO Talleys threats have left their workforce confused, angry and uncertain what to do. Efforts by the union to
engage with the company have been met with no constructive response.
“These actions by AFFCO Talley’s have let down other employers who have worked hard to comply and left a sour note for
Maori workers on this important holiday” Ms Fenton says.
ENDS