30 March 2012

Media Release

Port Dispute – Earlier Employment Court Sitting Would Help

The Auckland Chamber of Commerce wants consideration given to bringing forward the 16 May Employment Court hearing on the Auckland Port dispute to an earlier date.

“It has to be more than coincidence that when it was confirmed this week that a full hearing of the dispute by the Court would not take place until 16 May, some of the affected Port customers announced price rises to cover the extra costs the dispute is causing,” said Auckland Chamber head Michael Barnett.

As well as shipping and freight companies, importers are indicating that the price of some goods are likely to rise, and concern has been made about the potential of the dispute to impact on inflation.

“With settlement now unlikely until at least late May, the dispute is no longer just about the Port and the Maritime Union. It is becoming an issue affecting the health of many thousands of businesses directly and of the New Zealand economy as a whole.”

Between now and mid-May there is a likelihood of further cost and price increases associated with the dispute that will run into many millions of dollars. “If we can take steps to avoid further damage to our economy we should, and if that requires the business community or perhaps Government reminding the disputing parties and the Employment Court of the greater good and what makes good sense, then we should do so,” said Mr Barnett.
“As an issue with nationwide implications, consideration of an early Court hearing would be most helpful,” he concluded.

ENDS

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