Air New Zealand Chief Clarifies Industrial Action Claims
Wed 26 February 2003
Air New Zealand Managing Director and CEO Ralph Norris has today responded to Australian union claims surrounding low
level industrial action by a few of Air New Zealand's Australian staff who are members of the Australian Service Union
(ASU).
He confirmed that industrial action was taking place, however it involved only a few sales and office workers at the
airline's Australian operations. Cabin crew were not involved.
"It was 'business as usual' for Air New Zealand in Australia with no disruptions to flights and staff who took action
yesterday afternoon would be back at work later today."
Mr Norris has refuted statements by the Australian Services Union yesterday and moved to clarify the situation.
"The union's reference to a 'leaked memo' signed by me is erroneous. It was a letter released to management confirming
that their 12-month pay freeze has concluded. It also confirms a very modest performance-based payment effective from
February 1, 2003," he said
"To clarify, I would emphasise that managers have had their pay frozen for more than 12 months and many had taken pay
cuts of up to 20%.
"In terms of consistency to all Air New Zealand staff, we have asked all staff to take a 12-month pay pause. ASU members
are currently involved in enterprise bargaining to address this and allegations that these staff have not had increases
for more than four years is simply not accurate," said Mr Norris.
ENDS