Resumption of Port-Union talks – welcomed by Chamber of Commerce

Confirmation by the Ports of Auckland today that it will resume talks with the Maritime Union later this week on the contracting out proposal and for mediation on the Collective Agreement is welcome news, said Auckland Chamber head Michael Barnett.

“Continuing to talk over differences shows goodwill by both parties,” he said

However, Mr Barnett voiced his strongest possible objections to reports that the Maritime union secretary had threatened to blacklist an international ship and their company if it came into Auckland last night. Subsequent reports indicate the ship, the Kota Permason, diverted to Tauranga

“This is no way to win the hearts and minds of Aucklanders, and will only serve to entrench the huge support in the business community for an outcome that achieves a settlement once and for all,” said Mr Barnett.

“How can the union negotiate in good faith when its actions are undermining Auckland’s best interests? Clearly, the only course of action is for the Ports of Auckland to remain firmly resolved and committed to achieve a lasting solution,” concluded Mr Barnett.