Source: Maritime Union of New Zealand
The two main unions for Lyttelton Port Company (LPC) workers have welcomed a determination this week from the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) that found LPC breached obligations to the Unions and workers under the Collective Agreements (CEAs) through a proposed restructure of its container terminal operations.
The ERA has ordered LPC to halt its direct consultation process with affected workers, and instead engage in structured consultation with the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) and the Rail and Maritime Transport Union (RMTU) on the proposal within 20 working days.
The Authority ruled that LPC’s approach to developing its proposal to disestablish 35 positions, without involving Unions, breached the requirements of the CEAs and the wider duty of good faith under the Employment Relations Act.
MUNZ National Secretary Carl Findlay says the determination is a significant win for port workers by clearly reinforcing the importance of good faith and collective bargaining.
“This finding sends a strong message to employers that they cannot simply present a fully formed proposal for major change without genuinely engaging with the Unions who represent the affected workers,” says Mr Findlay.
Mr Findlay says collective agreements require a cooperative and collaborative approach, especially when jobs are on the line.
RMTU General Secretary Todd Valster says the ERA’s order for LPC to return to the table for structured consultation with the Unions was a positive outcome for port workers.
“This is a good result for workers because it ensures their collective voice is heard at a meaningful stage of the process. It means we can properly engage on the rationale, the details of the proposal, and explore alternatives that protect our members’ jobs and conditions,” says Mr Valster.
“Restructuring should not be presented from on high. It requires genuine engagement to find the best way forward for both the business and the people who make it run. This ERA determination reinforces that principle.”
MUNZ and RMTU looked forward to engaging with LPC as directed by the Authority to ensure a fair process for all affected workers.
