Hui calls for resignation of Sealord Chair

A Hui held on the Whakatu Marae yesterday was attended by around 200 employees and family of Sealord workers says Neville Donaldson, Assistant National Secretary Service and Food Workers Union Nga Ringa Tota.

The Hui was called to allow Maori Party Te Tai Tonga MP Rahui Katene and Iwi to hear the concerns of workers affected by the announced restructuring by Sealord.

"A large number of those who attended spoke very passionately about their issues and concerns over the lack of notice, opportunity to understand the issues or to investigate alternatives to the loss of 160 jobs" says Neville Donaldson.

"All too often companies only make these announcements once they have made a decision and therefore are not really interested in considering alternatives or having their decision put under scrutiny. This is very much the case in this instance." says Neville Donaldson.

Robin Hapi Sealord board chairperson was very much under the spot light for his comments around cooperate responsibility or in the view of those at the Hui "the lack of any real concern or compassion for those effected" says Neville Donaldson.

"A number of Maori attending called for Mr Hapi's resignation given his response which not only ignored the stated objectives of the purchase of Sealord for Maori but also the company's own web site which stated clear objectives to offer employment opportunities and mana. Both of these were very much missing in the company's response."

"Both Rahui Katene and the Iwi representives present have committed to being a voice for the workers and have undertaken to give an update on their action by the middle of this week" says Neville Donaldson.

ENDS

Service and Food Workers Union Nga Ringa Tota
www.sfwu.org

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