22 May 2012

FCV decision provides employment opportunities

“The Service and Food Workers Union Nga Ringa Tota believes the decision released by the government today goes some way in addressing the issues and concerns over the operation of FCVs in the exclusive economic zone, and presents job opportunities,” says SFWU Assistant National Secretary Neville Donaldson. “However we are advocating for a shorter transition period than four years.”

Neville Donaldson says four years is an excessive period of time time given the simplicity of the issues being addressed and solutions being put in place.

“Although this will resolve the identified legal, regulatory and employment law issues, it does not address the key issues and concerns put to the Ministerial Inquiry around the need for skill development in the fishing industry and the opportunity for employment creation through added value processing on shore.”

Neville Donaldson noted that this week Iwi have recognised the need to protect decent jobs, especially for Maori workers, through their intervention in the AFFCO dispute and are now provided with another a prime opportunity for to look at the employment opportunities for Maori.

Neville Donaldson says “we need to remember that returns on quota for Maori and non Maori go much further than simply dollars. What price do you put on respect and dignity achieved through employment and having families receive a living wage rather than a benefit?”

“This is an opportunity for Iwi to look at the employment opportunities that can be created in the fishing industry. We need to look at training and skill development that allows a career path in the fishing industry, especially for young Maori.”

Neville Donaldson said “good work has been done to date but there is more to be done so let’s not fall at the last hurdle by thinking this is the solution to all the industry problems.”

ENDS

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