Westpac & Finsec agree to protect Kiwi jobs

For immediate release
August 14 2009

Westpac & Finsec agree to protect Kiwi jobs

“A positive result that protects Kiwi jobs,” is how Michael Wood from bank workers’ union Finsec describes a new Collective Agreement with Westpac New Zealand, ratified by union members today, that provides an assurance to not off-shore jobs for a year.

“Westpac is committed to treating our workforce fairly, and a big part of that is committing to keeping jobs in New Zealand. We’ve also agreed to endeavour to preserve the overall number of jobs in our organisation. We’re proud of that commitment,” says Christine Parker, Westpac New Zealand’s GM People.

“We think that this result clearly shows the benefits of collective bargaining. By working together, Finsec members at Westpac have improved their job security, and achieved a reasonable pay increase of 2.25%, despite the difficult economic climate,”says Michael Wood. “Westpac have worked with us to achieve a deal that will benefit their business, their employees and their customers. They should be recognised for that at a time when other employers are not acting so constructively.”

“We are committed to listening to our employees and our customers, and acting in the best interests of New Zealand. We believe that this Agreement is a tangible demonstration of that commitment,” concludes Christine Parker from Westpac.

ENDS

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