Wage Increase for Port Workers Reflects Their Commitment to the Community

The two main waterfront unions have voted to ratify a collective employment agreement at Lyttelton Port that delivers a wage increase of just over 10% by September 2013. The increase is delivered in four stages over the next two years.

"Lyttelton Port has kept going through three major earthquakes in the last year, the latest on 13 June. Our members have played a crucial role in keeping the Port operational and ensuring the flow of goods that keeps a large part of the South Island economy going," said Rail and Maritime Transport Union General Secretary Wayne Butson.

"Together with the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ), our members have been bargaining since February to try and get a pay deal that reflects the hard work they've done and will continue to do to keep this port going."

"Lyttelton Port has posted record profits and our members have been critical in making that happen.

Wayne Butson said the agreement represented a responsible approach from union members, when considering the conditions they had worked through in the last twelve months.

"What this reflects is the dedication and commitment of these workers to their community and a recognition of the vital role the port plays in the economy of Christchurch and the South Island," he said.

"There are a lot of unsung heroes in Christchurch. Real Mums and Dads who are turning up for work every day and providing the services that we all depend on. Port workers are part of that effort," he said.

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