Sacked on the 89th Day of Employment
Two weeks ago the Unite Union gathered to protest at BurgerFuel Mission Bay against the termination of the local
franchisee's employee, Joanne Bartlett, on the 89th day of her 90 day trial period. Nationwide protests organised by the
newly formed Solidarity.org.nz network were due to take place today, Saturday.
Following this event Unite have been in discussions with the BurgerFuel head office to discuss the employment agreements
used across the system and also the particulars of Joanne's situation.
Unite is pleased to advise that those discussions have progressed positively and that to date BurgerFuel have
demonstrated a willingness to improve their probationary period processes and to cease using the current 90 day trial
period provisions.
To this end, both parties are currently working on a revised Individual Employment Agreement that will allow fairer
processes for the employees. It is BurgerFuel's intention to provide this new Employment Agreement to their franchisees
for use in all stores across the nation.
Unite Union is pleased with the commitment from BurgerFuel CEO, Josef Roberts who said “Now that these matters have been
brought to my attention in full detail, we believe that Unite Union's requests are fair and reasonable and in fact, will
help our Franchisees improve their employment culture and work environment"
Unite Union's Campaign organiser, Joe Carolan, said-
"BurgerFuel has really come to the table on this one and listened to the people. We're pleased with the outcome for
Joanne. But more than that, we're impressed that management have understood how the National government's proposed 90
Days fire at will legislation will impact negatively on New Zealand's workers. They've resolved to reject this divisive
law and find a better way. Sometimes, there is a happy ending. We hope that many other companies and employers out there
will take note. That includes you, John Key."
An update will be forthcoming in the next two to three weeks, however, we now feel that BurgerFuel understands the
position of the Unite Union and accordingly the proposed BurgerFuel nationwide protest action by the Solidarity network
for today Saturday September 4th will not take place.
ENDS