Company says it is 'committed to a fair and reasonable settlement'
More than $50,000 has been raised by a fundraiser aimed at helping workers of a manufacturing giant who have been locked out of their workplace in Kawerau since August 9.
The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions (NZCTU) and the Pulp and Paper Workers Union said they are happy with the support given to the locked-out employees.
"This money will help feed the families of the people who have been locked out. It will keep the heaters on, and the bills paid," said NZCTU president Richard Wagstaff in a statement.
According to the unions, the contributions to the fundraiser came from various individuals and unions, with the latter described as "incredibly generous" in their support.
"New Zealanders from across the country are standing together to support workers being unfairly treated," said Wagstaff. "The level of support shows what can happen when we work together. It's been marvellous."
The fund is expected to benefit the 145 millworkers who have been locked out of their workplace since August 9 by the manufacturing giant, effectively preventing them from reporting to work and getting paid.
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The lockout stems from the fallout of their wage negotiations, after the union requested a pay rise equal to the rate of inflation. In addition to the lockout, the workers were also prevented from making financial hardship withdrawals from their own savings by their employer.
Most recently, the manufacturing giant further threatened 67 of its own employees with $500,000 legal action, stemming from alleged technicalities during a strike in July.
These actions received condemnation from unions who accused the manufacturer of "starvation tactics."
On Friday, the manufacturing company revealed that there have been discussions between them and the Pulp and Paper Workers Union, and that the facilitated bargaining between them has "positive progress."
According to a spokesperson from the manufacturer, they are "committed to a fair and reasonable settlement that will support the future of the site."
Despite this, the company said it will keep its mill in Kawerau shuttered while talks continue.
