Media release: FIRST Union
Thursday June 6, 2013

Ball in Rockgas’ court over pay dispute

Contact Energy Rockgas drivers who are seeking comparable pay with others in the industry say that Rockgas needs to return to the negotiation table with a genuine interest in resolving the employment agreement talks.

Contact Energy has been reported in news media expressing disappointment that industrial action is occurring while the parties are still in engaged in discussions.

But FIRST Union organiser Jared Abbott said that this was not the case.

“Rockgas’ advocate and general manager walked out of our last mediation session refusing to shake hands.”

“They have made no commitment to attend mediation again, despite a provision in the bargaining process agreement between the company and the union allowing extra time before the issuing of a strike notice for them to attend mediation.”

“We are eager to get back around the table.”

“It is not the preference of Rockgas drivers to have to take industrial action to see some movement from the company in lifting wages, but they were faced with few options, especially after Rockgas made an offer that was lower than what they currently pay new employees.”

“Rockgas has nearly 50 per cent market share. They are very profitable company, charge customers high prices yet pay low wages.”

“We are ready to get back around the table to resolve this dispute. But Rockgas needs to come to the table with a genuine commitment to resolving its low wage problem,” Jared Abbot said.

The strike is for 8 weeks and commenced on Tuesday. It will affect all commercial and residential customers who rely on Rockgas cylinders. Nearly all of the Rockgas drivers are involved in the strike.

Ends.

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