Working together to get Centreport back online

Workers and management working together to get Centreport back online

Joint media release Maritime Union of New Zealand, Rail and Maritime Transport Union, E Tū FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday 1 December 2016

The 7.8 magnitude Kaikoura earthquake of 14 November 2016 caused severe damage to Centreport, Wellington.

The Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ), the Rail and Maritime Transport Union (RMTU) and E Tū Union, represent Centreport's on port workforce in cargo handling, port security, and engineering.

Since the earthquake, there have been substantial efforts to get shipping services resumed and cargo moving, says MUNZ Wellington Branch Assistant Secretary John Whiting.

“The positive relationships that have been developed over many years by the unions and workforce, and Centreport management, have enabled all parties to respond to the situation in a co-operative and constructive way.”

Port operations were resumed within 72 hours of the quake. Tankers, car carriers, bulk and log vessels, and cruise ships are alongside and working at berths confirmed for safe use.

RMTU organizer Todd Valster says the combined Unions and Centreport are now working the first post-quake container ship, the MSC vessel "Penelope".

This significant milestone signals full engagement in the recovery effort by port workers, and also the support for what will be required in working towards full port restoration in the months ahead, he says.

ENDS

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