PSA urges action to solve MAF pay dispute

The temporary injunction preventing planned industrial action by Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry staff provides a window of opportunity to resolve the long running pay dispute says their union, the Public Service Association (PSA).

The Employment Court this afternoon found that the strike notices issued by the PSA did not identify clearly enough who would be taking action this coming Friday and agreed to a temporary injunction against strike action sought by the Ministry.

PSA Assistant Secretary Jeff Osborne said the union is disappointed that the temporary injunction was granted, but respects the opinion of the Court.

“The temporary injunction awarded today will prevent the strike action by 700 staff planned for Friday. We think MAF should use this opportunity to resolve the dispute, rather than simply postpone inevitable strike action.

“We will continue to use our best efforts to reach a settlement – but we need to be clear that unless MAF revises its pay offer this dispute will not be settled. The resolve of our members to take strike action in support of a better pay offer remains as strong as ever.

“We will closely study the Court’s determination to ensure that should we be forced to issue further strike notices they will fully comply with the requirements it has laid down this afternoon.

“MAF staff have been trying to negotiate fair pay and conditions for the last 8 months. We do important work protecting New Zealand from unwanted pests and other incursions. It’s time our vital contribution to the economy and the environment is fairly recognised,” Jeff Osborne said.

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