Victory for SkyCity cleaners

Cleaners at SkyCity have had an absolute victory as the company has withdrawn its appeal against a determination by the Employment Relations Authority (ERA).

In November last year the ERA found that SkyCity had not acted as a fair and reasonable employer when they decided to contract out cleaning services. SkyCity appealed this determination, but has now dropped their appeal.

Service and Food Workers Union (SFWU) organiser Lynette Blacklaws said that the ruling was excellent news for the SkyCity cleaners. “SkyCity have always employed their cleaners directly, and for now their loyal employees are safe from the exploitative world of working for cleaning contractors,” Ms Blacklaws said.

“Appealing the ERA decision was never going to work, as it clearly states in the collective agreement that SkyCity must provide training and development opportunities, and maintain the highest standards of integrity, trust, and dignity.

“The original ERA decision shows why it’s so important for workers to organise collectively and fight for clear protections to be included in their agreements,” she said.

SFWU delegate and SkyCity cleaner Mina Chiswell was thrilled by the news. “We are so very happy and relieved to hear that it’s over,” Ms Chiswell said. “SkyCity have done the right thing!”

ENDS

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