15 February 2012

Further strikes a considerable concern, say shipping companies

Shipping industry body the International Container Lines Committee says the prospect of further strike action at Ports of Auckland is of considerable concern.

ICLC Chair Julian Bevis says the ongoing dispute is extremely frustrating for the shipping companies, and costly for their customers and for the economy as a whole.

“Delays add to our costs and, ultimately, to the cost to New Zealand businesses of connecting with customers and markets around the world,” says Bevis.

“I note the union’s comment that the proposed strike is intended to focus attention on the real issues. For our customers, the real issue is a secure supply chain. If they can’t get that from Auckland, they will look elsewhere,” he says.

Mr Bevis says the ICLC backs Ports of Auckland CEO Tony Gibson’s call for the port to lift its productivity levels, and urges the union and the port company to work together to find a solution to the present impasse.

ENDS

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