Media statement Monday, December 19, 2011

Time's up on port strike action

The time has come to end the disruption on the Auckland waterfront, the Employers and Manufacturers Association says.

"Business and the public are tired of the cat and mouse game the union has engaged on at the Auckland port," said Kim Campbell, EMA's chief executive.

"Its difficult to understand what the endgame is intended to be. No one understands what the union is trying to achieve.

"Now the Port of Tauranga has confirmed no more ships can divert there for the last two weeks of the year due to a KiwiRail shutdown, highlighting Auckland's vulnerability.

"Meanwhile damage is being caused to many other businesses dependent on the port for their imports and to supply export markets.

"Jobs are being put at risk.

"Auckland ratepayers should be up in arms because ultimately they are footing the bill.

"The union responded last week to a 10 per cent pay increase on its hourly rate for members with yet another strike notice! Most Auckland workers would be very happy to get such an offer.

"The port needs flexible work practices for our businesses to be competitive - the Maritime Union needs to recognize that and join the rest of us in the 21st century."

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