PSA and EPMU Media Release

Strike action major embarrassment for TVNZ: One News suffers disruption

Strike action currently underway by members of the Public Service Association and the Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union is causing major embarrassment for TVNZ evident by the decline in quality of One News during tonight's strike.

"Union members walked off the job at 4pm this afternoon in protest at TVNZ's refusal to meet pay and leave claims. It was clear to viewers that One News suffered technical difficulties tonight," said Brenden Sheehan, PSA Organiser at TVNZ.

"The disruptions of news and cancellation of programmes as a result of strike action is a major embarrassment to the broadcaster. It's clear the strike action is causing significant disruption, its about time TVNZ put a stop to it and settled this dispute."

"TVNZ simply cannot provide the up-to-the-minute news and current affairs its renowned for while striking staff seeking a fair deal continue to disrupt programmes," said Rachel Mackintosh, EPMU Organiser at TVNZ.

"The message to TVNZ from striking workers is clear: to deliver quality news and programmes, you need to look after the people who produce them."

The unions are seeking a 5% pay rise for everyone and additional annual leave. TVNZ is offering no additional annual leave and a 2.25 percent pay increase - an effective pay cut after increases in the cost of living are taken into account.

There are about 300 union members located in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. They are presenters, producers, administrators, camera people and involved in technical support and scheduling.

ENDS

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