Malvern Abattoir position misrepresented in strike

Media Release

Attn. Industrial Reporters

November 24, 2003 4pm

Employer’s position misrepresented in Malvern Abattoir strike.

The Council of Trade Unions media release in relation to the Strike at Malvern Abattoir confirms the employers concerns that the Meat Workers and Related Trades Union have not been properly presenting the employer’s position. The Union has refused a request from management to outline to union members the offer that was presented.

Due to temporary arrangements negotiated with the union in September 2002 workers income has increased significantly over the last year, despite processing less stock. Evidence supporting this has been presented to the unions.

The Managing Director, David Thomas stated “contrary to the comment of Ross Wilson President of the CTU that the employer has come up with a nil pay offer,” in fact an increase of 10% to the current productivity based contractual rate has been offered and rejected by the Union. Ross Wilson was not involved in the negotiations and has not spoken to the company.

“The management message has always been that employees would share the benefits of productivity increases. The Union response has been that they are not interested in the commercial aspects or viability of the employer’s business. The employer has also offered a 2-½ % increase to the temporary hourly based arrangement during negotiations. This also was rejected”

Given the obligations on both parties under the Employment Relations Act, the employer is disappointed at the union’s position that there is no prospect of further talks. In accordance with their obligations of good faith the employer remains wiling to explore alternative positions to resolve the dispute. The Union has refused these approaches and their members have instead chosen to walk off the job.

ENDS

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