MEDIA RELEASE - For Immediate Release

3 November 2006

Cleaners say BSCNZ response "disappointing"

The union representing the cleaning workforce in New Zealand, The Service and Food Workers Union was disappointed that BSCNZ, the trade association representing the contract cleaning industry, has made a press statement attacking cleaners speaking outside the Golden Service Awards ceremony in Auckland today.

BSCNZ spokesman Brian Young stated:

"For our workers, the Golden Service Awards are their Oscars.

This is an event which is keenly competed for each year."

It is interesting that an event BSCNZ refer to as 'the Oscars for cleaners' neither invites cleaners to attend the celebrations, nor refers to the treatment of cleaners in the criteria used for judging the awards.

"I'm sure some of the cleaners would have enjoyed the chardonnay and chicken fettuccine on offer at the awards," said SFWU Cleaners Union National Secretary John Ryall

"BSCNZ has said that it welcomes the dialogue brought about by cleaners' campaign for respect and a fair deal, yet it seems most contract cleaning firms would rather send out press releases than work constructively with cleaners about improving their industry," said Mr Ryall

Cleaners speaking outside the event were disappointed to hear that BSCNZ was not interested in what cleaners had to say.

"I am sad that my bosses don't think I have a right to be heard," said SFWU Cleaners Union member Sue Lafaele.

"What we have to say as cleaners is important. They won't invite us in to their lunch or their awards, but they can't stop us from telling the world how we're treated."

"BSCNZ should respect cleaners and what we have to say" concluded Ms Lafaele.

ENDS

See... http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO0611/S00048.htm

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