The Maritimes Summer 2012/2013

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2012/2013 | 1

Issue 40 • Summer 2012/2013 Magazine of the Maritime Union of New Zealand ISSN 1176-3418

The Maritimes

For secure jobs and public ownership

Ongoing activity around the Ports of Auckland facilitation process is going on as this issue of the Maritimes goes to print.POAL and MUNZ will both meet with the Facilitator who is intending to make recommendations, possibly as early as Friday 7 December.MUNZ has indicated its willingness to continue working constructively and making every effort to achieve a fair and balanced collective agreement. This includes considering and responding in a positive way to recommendations from the Facilitator. MUNZ has worked hard to settle a collective agreement that provides greater flexibility on the Port while providing our members with security of employment, time off with family, predictability and a safe roster. The goal is to reach such a settlement and avert the possibility of industrial action. What is clear is that the dispute could be resolved if there was a willingness by POAL to do. So far there has been little willingness to address fundamental issues like certainty of start times and time off, which are vitally important to a safe working environment and the ability to have time with family, and committing to not contracting out your work.

Mayoral statementIn November, Mayor of Auckland Len Brown wrote to MUNZ and POAL expressing his strong expectation that the dispute be solved through the Facilitation process. He said “The dispute has dragged on far too long and in doing so, has not been good for the port workers, their union, the port company or, in fact, Auckland as a whole.” The Mayor went on to express his support for a collective agreement to be settled between MUNZ and POAL and stated his expectation that the recommendation from the facilitation process be used as …”a vehicle for ending the dispute and moving forward”.MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe has publicly responded to the Mayor’s letter by welcoming his intervention and assured the Mayor that we wish to settle a collective agreement without the need for industrial action. MUNZ stated:

“Our members are part of this community and they have the right to be employed on a fair and balanced collective agreement and we welcome the Mayor’s strong statement about the urgent need for a collective agreement to be settled between MUNZ and POAL”.

Solidarity for our causeRecently MUNZ has briefed the ITF at a global meeting attended by MUNZ National Secretary Joe Fleetwood.The New Zealand ITF affiliates and the NZCTU affiliates were briefed by National President Garry Parsloe.We outlined the current status of the dispute and the huge costs it has had to you, to businesses and the broader community.We have received strong messages of solidarity and support from these union groups and we know that they will do what they can to support us in our cause to achieve a fair and balanced collective agreement.

Legal UpdateOn 12 November we attended a mediation regarding our challenge to the establishment of Portpro. Essentially we are arguing that Portpro has not been established to represent the collective interests of their members which is the purpose of real unions like MUNZ. This matter is now the subject of a separate legal challenge.All issues regarding the P32’s and the undermining of the Collective Agreement, including the negotiation of the Port Pro Collective by POAL, will be heard in the Employment Court in February 2013.Last Thursday, 29 November we presented evidence on our case about a breach of s.97 of the Employment Relations Act, the replacement of striking workers at Engineering. Our view is that POAL acted illegally in employing the Noell technician and Port Star Engineering to carry out straddle repairs and fuelling while we were on strike and locked out. We hope a decision on this will be delivered before the end of December 2012.

Ports of Auckland Dispute Update


The Maritimes Magazine

Published quarterly by the Maritime Union of New Zealand. Authorized by Joe Fleetwood, 220 Willis Street, Wellington.ISSN 1176-3418

Editor: Victor BillotMobile: 021 482219Email: [email protected]: PO Box 8135, Dunedin 9041, New Zealand

Editorial Board: Joe Fleetwood, Garry Parsloe, Ray Fife and Carl Findlay

Deadline for Autumn 2013 edition: 1 March 2013

Cover photo by Peter Torrance

Thanks to our photographers for this edition Alan Windsor, Harry Holland, Peter Torrance and others

Website: www.munz.org.nzPhotos: www.flickr.com/maritimeunionVideo: www.youtube.com/maritimeunionnzFacebook: www.facebook.com/maritimeunionTwitter: www.twitter.com/maritimeunion

Contact the Maritime Union

National OfficeTelephone: 04 3850 792Fax: 04 3848 766Address: PO Box 27004, Wellington 6141Office administrator: Ramesh PathmanathanEmail: [email protected]

General Secretary: Joe FleetwoodDirect dial: 04 8017614Mobile: 021 364649Email: [email protected]

National President: Garry ParsloeDirect dial: 09 3034652Mobile: 021 326261Email: [email protected]

National Vice President: Carl FindlayDirect dial: 09 3034652Mobile: 021 760887Email: [email protected]

Assistant General Secretary: Ray Fife Direct dial: 03 2128189Mobile: 0274 475317Email: [email protected]

ITF Inspector: Grahame MacLarenDirect dial: 04 8017613Mobile: 021 2921782Email: [email protected]

Communications Officer: Victor BillotMobile: 021 482219Address: PO Box 8135, DunedinEmail: [email protected]

Ports of Auckland dispute update page 2

Branch reports page 22

Conference 2012 page 4

In this issue10 years on for Maritimes Editorial by Victor Billot

This is the 40th edition of the Maritimes, marking ten years of publication. The magazine has been published quarterly since the Union formed in 2003.It’s a timely anniversary as the Union has just held a successful Triennial Conference and has been busy working on its structures and strategy – as well as engaged in major industrial disputes.When the magazine started I had just come on board at a time of great change. The watersiders and seafarers had just amalgamated, and national officers Trevor Hanson and Dave Morgan

must have taken a leap of faith, because they agreed to take me on to produce a new union magazine together with other media and publication tasks. The first issue of the Maritimes came out on a day in early 2003 when Trevor and Dave happened to be visiting Port Chalmers on a tour of the ports. I can remember handing out some copies (smelling of fresh ink) in the union offices to the two national officials and the local executive members.There was a lengthy silence as everyone in the room scanned through the hot off the press copies as I waited with a little trepidation for the response. Everyone seemed reasonably happy with the production, at least to the point of letting me put together a second edition, and things seemed to go on from there.I think the magazine has proved its worth since then and continued the tradition of maritime workers who have always been great publishers of magazines and newspapers in New Zealand and around the world. Over the years the Maritimes has featured some of the highs and lows for the Union – our campaigns against casualization, for New Zealand shipping, against privatisation and deregulation, promoting health and safety, putting the spotlight on flag of convenience shipping and exploitation of crews in the fishing industry. Including our union history and some of the social side of life has been important too.All back issues of the Maritimes are available as electronic publications for download on our website.Thanks to all the contributors to the Maritimes over the last decade who have helped make the magazine what it is.2013 will find our Union in good heart and safely navigating through turbulent waters.

PostscriptTwo long standing members who have stood down from their duties as members of the National Council at the recent 2012 Triennial Conference were Kevin Forde of Timaru and Dein Ferris of Gisborne.I met Dein and Kevin back in 2001 when I did some work for the NZWWU assisting with the casualization campaign at the tail end of the CHH/Mainland dispute.It is fair to say that I probably didn’t know what I was getting myself in for with the job. However I was slowly brought up to speed with the realities of the maritime industry.I was given some useful insights from some of the old hands when I called into some of the regional ports like Timaru and Gisborne. I recall getting a reasonable grilling at a Gisborne meeting from a couple of members and then handed a beer afterwards, perhaps to help me recover.All the best Dein and Kevin.

News page 26

4 | The Maritimes | Summer 2012/2013 www.munz.org.nz

CONFERENCE 2012The fourth Triennial Conference of the Maritime Union of New Zealand was held from Tuesday 6 November to Friday 9 November 2012 at the Mercure Willis Street Hotel in Wellington.Guests included delegates from global transport unions, political leaders, New Zealand unionists, legal experts, superannuation fund managers and more.The conference featured many important discussions and decisions on the future of the Union.

These included a report on the Ports of Auckland dispute, as well as votes on union policy remits, an update of the union rules, and the presentation of a national strategy based around the four key sectors of the maritime industry.The following pages feature highlights of the Conference and reports on the main events and proceedings.Further information will be included in future editions of the Maritimes, including a list of remits, once the official minutes have been confirmed.


General Secretary Joe Fleetwood’s address to the 4th Triennial Conference of the Maritime Union of New Zealand, 6 November 2012

Comrades, friends, brothers and sisters, It is an honour to be here today to speak to you as General Secretary of the Maritime Union of New Zealand.Our fourth Triennial Conference takes place at a time of great change and great stress for working people in New Zealand and around the world.It is a time of danger but also an opportunity to build workers’ rights and secure jobs.

Welcome to guestsFirstly I would like to thank the national officers of the Maritime Union for their hard work over the last three years representing maritime workers. We extend a special welcome to our international guests who have travelled long distances to be with usWe welcome the International President of the ITF and National Secretary of the MUA, Paddy Crumlin.Paddy is a good friend of MUNZ and we strongly supported Paddy for his role at the ITF, where he has already made a big impact.Shannon O’Keeffe and Mark Davis are our two international guests from the ITF who MUNZ work with on a regular basis.The MUA and MUNZ have a very strong connection forged over a century and more of common struggles and we welcome our MUA comrades here today.The ILWU have been great friends of MUNZ and we have in attendance their four international officers who have taken time out of very busy schedules to attend our Conference. Welcome to President McEllrath, Vice Presidents Wesley Furtado and Ray Familathe, and Secretary Treasurer Willie Adams.In addition we welcome the President of the ILWU Canada section, Mark Gordienko.From the UK, we welcome RMT National Secretary Steve Todd and Andy Gordon.We give a special welcome to Secretary Itoh of the All Japan Dock Workers Union Zen Kowan, who have a long history of friendship with New Zealand maritime workers.We have a number of unions represented for the first time at a MUNZ conference. For the first time we welcome a delegation from the ILA, Brothers Ken Riley, Mike Payne and Mark Bass.In addition we welcome our Australian friends CFMEU Mining and Energy Section Secretary Andrew Vickers, and AWU Assistant National Secretary Scott McDine.The Electrical Trades Union National Assistant Secretary Allen Hicks, Queensland/NT State Secretary Peter Simpson and Queensland/NT State President Chris McGaw will be arriving later today.These are all unions whom we are forging strong relationships with and who have extended considerable support to us in recent times.

National strategyThe last three years have in some ways been a trial by fire for MUNZ.The level of industrial and political activity by the Union has ramped up to a new level.I believe we have risen to the challenge but we are continually looking for ways in which we can improve our methods and advance the interests of our members.In response to these challenges, MUNZ is developing a national strategy based around our four main sectors – offshore, coastal shipping, terminals, and bulk and general stevedoring.This national strategy and sector strategies will be presented to the Conference later this week.

POALThe major focus in the last year has been ongoing industrial action at Ports of Auckland that came to a head late in 2011.This dispute has placed immense pressure on MUNZ but as you have heard from the National President in his report we have remained united and focussed on a resolution to this dispute.The wider issues behind POAL dispute are central to the future of MUNZ.Employment issues such as yellow associations, casualization, and contracting out are part of a wider attack by employers and capitalist institutions throughout society.These issues affect all ports either directly or indirectly.Health and safety, privatization and the lack of a national ports and maritime strategy at the Government level are other major concerns.

PortsThe Port of Napier dispute in 2007, the ongoing series of deaths and injuries at Port of Tauranga, and the struggle for the Port of Timaru to survive are other examples of major problems in our ports.Yellow associations are a serious threat to genuine unionism in New Zealand.Casualization and contracting out are deliberate tools being used by employers to intensify the exploitation of working people.The disruption to ports and the economy by the self-interested actions of global shipping companies and local market dominant corporations is also causing extreme concern.MUNZ has argued for “KiwiPort”, a national ports strategy.KiwiPort would ensure standards in the industry and to avoid the vast waste of resources when ports compete against each other rather than work together as part of a national plan.

Industrial struggle in NZ and internationalWithin New Zealand, MUNZ has been active in supporting workers in industrial struggle such as the recent Talleys AFFCO dispute with the Meat Workers’ Union.We also take an active role in the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions’ Fairness at Work campaign for employment laws that protect and enhance the position of the working class.Internationally, MUNZ has supported international solidarity actions including the ILWU at EGT and at Boron, and the USW at Alma, Quebec.We actively support many campaigns to defend and advance workers’ rights in the industrial, social and political arena around the world. MUNZ is working closely with the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions and the International Transport Workers’ Federation.We are engaged with new global networks in our industry including the Mining and Maritime Initiative and the Trans Tasman Oil and Gas Alliance.

TrainingMUNZ has now reactivated our training programme.An initial one day delegate training course has been run by Local 13 member Craig Harrison who will work part time as union trainer.We intend to run courses at ports around the country and develop more advanced and specialist courses over time.

CampaignsMUNZ is not a large union in numbers but our activist approach and strategic position in the economy mean we have a substantial influence.We are a progressive and militant union that continues to play a leadership role in the New Zealand union movement, thanks to our past leaders including Dave Morgan, Trevor Hanson, Jimmy Woods, Chris Kenny and many more.MUNZ is affiliated to the New Zealand Labour Party and we continue to work to ensure the Labour Party advocates strongly for working people and does not lose its way as it has done in the past.

Organizing Our Future


MUNZ will attend the Labour Party conference this month.In addition MUNZ works with other political parties that share our goals and could play a potential role in a pro-worker, left Government, including the Greens, Mana, and Alliance.MUNZ has played an active role in a number of campaigns.We are actively supporting the New Zealand Not For Sale campaign with a focus on replacing free trade deals with a global economic system based on equality and respect.We have opposed privatization of ports and are part of the wider campaign against asset sales.We are backing the Living Wage campaign and campaigns to stop violence against women and families.We have worked with the Tax Justice campaign to replace GST with a financial transactions tax.MUNZ takes its role as a campaigning organization seriously. This is part of our heritage as a union that has historically fought for wider political issues such as the end of apartheid and opposition to nuclear weapons.

Disasters In addition to these challenges, working people in New Zealand and globally have suffered the effects of natural and man made disasters over the last three years.The Pike River mine disaster of 2010 was a dark day for New Zealand.There is no doubt that the drive for profit contributed to the disaster.We acknowledge the workers and the West Coast community, and also the miners who were members of the EPMU.MUNZ has in recent years rebuilt our historical connection with miners and the EPMU who are attending our conference and we feel their loss as our own.The devastating Christchurch Earthquake of 2011 had a major impact on our members at the Port of Lyttelton.A welfare fund set up by MUNZ for our members was generously supported including substantial donations from our international friends here today.

We also acknowledge the great loss of life to the people of Japan suffered from their earthquake and tsunami in 2011, the bush fires and floods in Australia, and the devastation on the east coast of North America to mention a few of the horrific events of the last few years. I apologise for not mentioning all the other disasters and events that have occurred.We offer our condolences to our guests from the USA, Japan and Australia.In all these disasters, the resilience of working class people has meant that life goes on and the recovery process continues but we remember those who lost their lives and suffered from these events.In New Zealand, the Rena disaster did not result in loss of life but it had a big impact on the local community.New Zealand was clearly not prepared for the grounding of a vessel of this size and this situation has added urgency to our ongoing battle for higher standards in the maritime industry and improved response to maritime disasters.

Health and safetyThe deregulation of New Zealand industry means that we now have a far higher relative rate of workplace injury and death than countries such as Australia or the UK. A series of fatalities and injuries has occurred in the maritime industry.The Port of Tauranga is often presented as the success story of New Zealand ports whose business model should be replicated.Strangely, this port has seen ongoing deaths and injuries amongst workers.It is disturbing to see how port management absolve themselves of responsibility through the contracting out model.MUNZ has played an active role in exposing the exploitation and abuse of foreign fishing crews in joint venture fishing vessels.The Government announced earlier this year that crews will have to be employed directly by New Zealand employers after a phase out period.This action has taken far too long and does not address the lack of employment opportunities for young New Zealand workers in our own domestic industry.

International solidarity: ILWU International President Robert McEllrath (left) and ILWU Canada Section President Mark Gordienko (third from left) receive certificates of appreciation to their Union for their support in the Ports of Auckland dispute from MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe (second from left) and MUNZ General Secretary Joe Fleetwood (right) (Photo by Alan Windsor)


MUNZ has also been working to end the use of methyl bromide as a fumigant on export cargoes.The development of alternative fumigation methods is now well underway and ongoing research is being carried out on the effects of methyl bromide.We have had a number of cases of the fatal motor neurone disease that has been linked to methyl bromide.

CommunicationsMUNZ is for better or worse constantly in the news.We strive to present the viewpoint of our members and working people in general.We continue to publish magazines and publications, a website, and have developed our social media presence on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.The Ports of Auckland dispute has seen MUNZ take a sophisticated approach with a co-ordinated political and community campaign underpinning our industrial and legal approach.Times have changed and we must change with them, and be clever about how we present ourselves.

MilestonesThe last three years have seen a number of milestones for our Union.We have completed the amalgamation process with single branches now operating in Auckland and Wellington.The MUNZ rules have been reviewed and modernized for approval by this Conference.We commemorated the 60th anniversary of the 1951 Waterfront Lockout last year, with guests including our great mates from the MUA and CFMEU.In ‘51 the watersiders, seamen and miners contributed collectively around fifty thousand pounds to the struggle, including one large donation that was carried ashore from a trans Tasman vessel in a paper bag by a young seaman who later became a Cabinet Minister.

We commemorated the 120th anniversary of the 1890 Maritime Strike in 2010 and next year is the centenary of the 1913 Maritime Strike.We have seen the publication of Jagged Seas, the history of the NZSU, thanks to Dave Morgan and Trevor Hanson who engaged this book project.MUNZ continues to play an active role in our communities.Our branches and our members are active in their communities, supporting local causes, campaigns, clubs, organizations and fund raising, because we belong in these communities.

Conclusion – The FutureThe Maritime Union is strongly placed to build its role as New Zealand’s leading and most effective specialist maritime trade union.However, fulfilling this potential will require a commitment from our organization to a growth path. There is potential for our Union to grow membership and influence in key parts of the maritime and transport industry.For example, the organizing of inland ports and the growth of the offshore oil and gas sector provide opportunities for us.Building our relationships with other unions in our sector both within New Zealand and internationally will have to be part of our future.The key will be to take advantage of those opportunities, expanding our coverage and effectiveness.Our Union also needs to be very aware of the need for building the skills and confidence of our youth members in an industry that has an ageing workforce.This is a pressing task which the needs to be dealt with in the next three years as a priority, and the national officers will elaborate during this conference.In closing, thank you for taking part in the Maritime Union of New Zealand Conference 2012.I look forward to talking to all of you over the next few days about the future of our Union and welcome your suggestions.Kia Kaha Tatou – Be Strong, we are all one.

WhangareiMobile: 021 855121Fax: 09 459 4972Address: PO Box 397, Whangarei Email: [email protected] Auckland Local 13Phone: 09 3034 652 Fax: 09 3096 851Mobile: 021 326 261 (President Garry Parsloe) 021 760 886 (Secretary Russell Mayn) 021 670002 (Walking Delegate D. Phillipps)Address: PO Box 1840, Shortland Street, Auckland 1140Email: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Mount MaunganuiPhone: 07 5755 668 Fax: 07 5759 043Mobile: 0274 782308Address: PO Box 5121, Mt. MaunganuiEmail: [email protected]

Gisborne Local 38 Mobile: 025 6499697Address: 5 Murphy Road, GisborneEmail: [email protected]

New PlymouthMobile: 027 468 0050Address: PO Box 6084, New PlymouthEmail: [email protected]

NapierPhone/Fax: 06 8358 622Mobile: 027 6175441Address: PO Box 70, NapierEmail: [email protected]

WellingtonPhone: 04 3859 288 (Secretary Mike Clark) 04 8017 619 (Asst. Secretary John Whiting)Fax: 04 3848 766Mobile: 0274 538222 (Secretary Mike Clark) 021 606379 (Asst. Secretary John Whiting)Address: PO Box 27004, WellingtonEmail: [email protected] [email protected]

NelsonFax: 03 5472104Mobile: 027 6222691Address: PO Box 5016, NelsonEmail: [email protected]

Lyttelton Local 43Phone: 03 3288 306 Fax: 03 3288 798Address: PO Box 29, Lyttelton TimaruPhone/Fax: 03 6843 364Mobile: 021 2991091Address: PO Box 813, TimaruEmail: [email protected] Port Chalmers Dunedin Local 10Phone: 03 4728 052 Fax: 03 4727 492Mobile: 0274 377601Address: PO Box 44, Port ChalmersEmail: [email protected]

BluffPhone/Fax: 03 2128 189Mobile: 027 4475317Address: PO Box 5, BluffEmail: [email protected]

Branch and local contacts


The Ports of Auckland Dispute and its wider significance and political implications: A report to the MUNZ Triennial Conference, November 2012

By National President Garry Parsloe,

The dispute between the Maritime Union and Ports of Auckland Ltd is a significant industrial dispute with implications not only for our union but the wider union movement in NZ and internationally. It is a dispute that remains to be settled over twelve months from the time we initiated bargaining in August 2011.The time since bargaining commenced has included a period of bargaining between the Union and the Company followed by strikes, a lockout, a major public and political campaign, a large rally on the 6 March, a return to work and an extended period of facilitation which continues although may well be drawing to an end. During the whole period we have been involved in extensive legal action on collective and individual matters and had a significant victory with the granting of an injunction stopping POAL contracting out our work.We have faced completely unreasonable demands from POAL which have included complete flexibility and lack of employment security. Early this year we faced the mass dismissal of all our members at POAL with the announcement of our work being contracted out. Our view has been that this showed the company had no intention to settle a collective contract with us and while an injunction was won that stopped the contracting out, the knowledge of the Company’s agenda has been a significant barrier to resolving the dispute. The reality of bargaining is we have tried very hard to settle a collective agreement that offers greater flexibility while protecting security for our members. We want a successful productive Port for our own job security and for Port’s owners, the people of Auckland. Despite significant movements by us with a range of proposals around rostering, the POAL seems to steadfastly maintain their original position. It is hard not see this dispute being a determined effort to get rid of us. Early in this dispute we recognised we were not going to win by industrial action alone. The nature of the dispute with a publicly owned organisation, a company with an agenda and the ability to spend seemingly unlimited money was going to require us to act on many fronts.


We have mounted a coordinated campaign operating at 3 levels:• Public and Political• Bargaining and Legal• Support from wider union movement – NZCTU and their affiliates

and ITF and their affiliates. Our employer set about publicly attacking our members and the union as a whole. We successfully built public support in the face of a concerted effort to paint us as thugs, lazy and overpaid. We did so by putting a human face of our members and their families on our response and by talking about issues in a way that people could relate to – the impact of casualisation – not knowing when you would be working and the ability to spend time with family for example. A lot of information about our campaign, including a deliberate effort to ‘set the record straight’ is included in the booklet ‘Save our Port – the Wharfies Story’The ownership of the Port and accountability of the POAL have been difficult dynamics to work with. Effectively the Port of Auckland is 100% Council owned but technically the owner is the so called Council Controlled Organisation - Auckland Council Investments Ltd (ACIL). ACIL is accountable to the Auckland Council – POAL is a company with its own Board that reports to ACIL (the owner). This campaign has seen us engage at every level with the Auckland Council – the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, the governing body, individual Councillors, Local Boards and ACIL itself.We have been urging our elected representatives to require the so called Council Controlled Organisation ACIL to hold POAL to account for the costs and mismanagement of this dispute. Recently it became clear that despite ACIL’s protestations that they weren’t able to become involved, they were in fact working very closely with POAL and were aligned with the position they were taking.We have had some great support from a number of Councillors and Local Board members who have done what they can to ask questions, demand information and to show their public support for us – in the media and on the picket line. This relationship with Local Government is important and one we need to continue in the future. Next year the local government elections take place and we know how important it is to have progressive people elected – certainly things would have been better for us if there had been a more progressive Auckland Council. The crazy thing is that the massive unnecessary cost of the dispute is being paid for by public money and we will continue demanding transparency and accountability. Political allies are crucially important in an industrial dispute. We offered to brief all Auckland MPs – no National MPs took up our offer. We have had good support from MPs from Labour and the Greens as well as some involvement by Mana and NZ First. We are a Labour Party affiliated union and we have had benefit from that not only from MP involvement but by significant ongoing support from Labour Party activists. Darien Fenton as Labour’s Labour Spokesperson has been a staunch supporter and her Members Bill ‘Local Government (Council Controlled Organisations) Amendment Bill demanding transparency was in the public arena at the same time we were working hard to publicise the lack of transparency and accountability for the costs of this dispute. The current National Government is about to make changes to the Employment Relations Act which, if they had been in force at the time of this dispute, would have made our ability to win a great deal more difficult. In the end the law we operate under is of fundamental importance and we have to support a change of Government and the election of a Labour led Government that will make changes to the ERA that actually support collective bargaining.

The other significant ally we have had has been the union movement. The CTU, especially President Helen Kelly, has been absolutely firm in their support and has provided much practical assistance. We have worked closely with CTU affiliated unions and whenever we have needed them they have been there – on the rally, on the picket line, handing out information to the public and raising money. Likewise the leadership and membership of the ITF have been with us throughout this dispute – exerting pressure, joining us on the picket line, raising money and lobbying our local government politicians. There is no question of the value of our membership of the CTU and the ITF – we have experienced unwavering solidarity in word and deed. A key learning from this dispute is the importance of being connected – publicly, politically and industrially. Following the return to work of the MUNZ members in April of this year some have assumed the dispute at the Port was settled. This was partly because they were back at work and partly because we weren’t in the media much. But, as I have outlined, the dispute continues and we are at an important crossroads in the facilitation process. Our campaign continues at every level– bargaining in facilitation, legally, politically and publicly. Meanwhile there is considerable tension on the Port and recently a ‘new union’ Portpro has been registered. They have recently ‘negotiated’ a collective agreement with Ports of Auckland Ltd. Our members continue to do their job professionally and to receive productivity bonuses for their work but there are a number who are leaving because they can no longer tolerate the current work environment. It is clear that POAL is trying to win this dispute by attrition - replacing MUNZ members who leave with people not willing to join MUNZ and who become a replacement pool of labour. We are aware of the need to organise effectively in response to this strategy. We are ensuring we maintain good communication with our members on the Port and have recommenced activities to bring them and our supporters together over the next few weeks. The real heroes in this dispute are our members on POAL - they have stayed staunch and done a good job under great pressure on the port. Your support as fellow members of MUNZ has been critical, not only in a practical sense, but also the extent to which you have realised the need to prioritise work on this campaign and the understanding of how critical it is for our whole union to win this dispute. Settling a collective agreement is a necessary step but it is not sufficient to resolve all of the issues. We will need to see people held to account and a change in culture at the port so that we can have secure, safe work under fair conditions with direct employment continuing to build on the productivity increases at the Port so that it delivers to the people of Auckland and supports the NZ economy.


ITF Maritime Round Table MeetingCasablanca 25–27 September 2012By Garry Parsloe National PresidentOn 25 September 2012 the General Secretary Joe Fleetwood and I attended the ITF Maritime Round Table Conference in Casablanca.On day one the conference was opened by the ITF General Secretary David Cockcroft. David spoke on the attacks on transport workers all around the world and on the need to protect these workers.David Cockcroft’s presentation was followed by a report on the attacks on workers in Morocco, especially those union leaders that are jailed in Morocco for no other reason than being a union leader and fighting for workers’ rights.Secretary of the Dockers’ Section Steve Cotton was the next speaker. Steve spoke on the Port of Convenience Campaign, the Flag of Convenience Campaign and the Global Network Terminal Campaign.The next speaker was ITF President Paddy Crumlin. Paddy spoke on the attacks on transport workers all over the world. He spoke about the fight on the Botany Bay docks in Sydney and spent time talking about the struggle on the Auckland Docks.Paddy expanded on the global attacks and the international reactions of workers all around the world.The session after morning smoko was headed “Arab Spring and Beyond - Trade Union Perspectives”. The afternoon was taken up with video presentations around “Conclusions and Actions Plans and Thinking about the Global Supply Chains”.

The morning of 26 September opened with all the delegates being appointed to the various workshops. Because of the large attendance there was a need to have seven workshops.The first workshop we attended was under the heading of “Organising around Health and Safety”. This included new technology/working practices and legal restrictions on the right to organise.Health and safety issues often provide unions with an ideal opportunity to mobilise members in groups comprising of both seafarers and dockers. These opportunities will identify how maritime workers can work together and organise Health and Safety Campaigns.The second workshop was “Union Responses to Industry Developments”.Key points were how does this issue affect unions, identifying some practical things that the union can do to respond and identifying some practical things the ITF should do to respond.In this workshop I was able to give a report on some of the issues facing MUNZ on the Auckland waterfront.The rest of the day was taken up with delegates attending the various workshops.On the last day 27 October 2012 we attended further workshops on ITF and transport workers’ issues.At noon we received a delegation of Moroccan trade union leaders to report on the arrest of the leader of the Moroccan Waterfront Workers’ Union, Said Elhairech, who was being detained on trumped up charges.After the report we all gathered outside the hotel to chant “Free Said” and have group photos taken. In the afternoon we went into regional groups to prepare the reports for the presentations back to the final session.Around 4:00pm the spokespersons for each region reported back on their regions’ findings and recommendations for taking the ITF forward.After the reports there was a summing up from ITF Secretary Steve Cotton, ITUC President Sharan Burrows and ITF President Paddy Crumlin.Once again the ITF has held a positive and productive conference.

Maritime Union onlineWebsite: www.munz.org.nzPhotos: www.flickr.com/maritimeunionVideo: www.youtube.com/maritimeunionnzFacebook: www.facebook.com/maritimeunionTwitter: www.twitter.com/maritimeunion


MUA National Council15–18 October 2012By Garry Parsloe National PresidentOn 15 October 2012, MUNZ General Secretary Joe Fleetwood and I attended the Maritime Union of Australia National Council in Sydney.The meeting was opened at 9am with an overview of issues facing the MUA in both the Stevedoring and Seafaring sections. MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin in his opening address also spent time on the Ports of Auckland dispute before addressing national policy and a strategy team report. Next was a Returning Officer’s report, rule changes and a National Conference update. There was a long debate around the rules, especially on voting issues.After morning smoko under the heading of ‘The Government’s Maritime, Freight and Infrastructure Agenda’ we had an address from Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese.The Minister spoke at length on shipping reform, safe shipping, safety at sea, foreign seafarers, training, coastal shipping and international shipping. The next session was headed ‘Organising Strategy Team Report’ delivered by Assistant National Secretary, Warren Smith. Warren addressed safe work practices and the absolute need for a strong code of practice around safety issues in the stevedoring industry. In the lunch session Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Greg Combet, launched the Hunterlink National Hotline Referral Service.After the lunch session we had the Northern NSW Branch Report from Branch Secretary, Glen Williams. Glen spoke on safety issues, work practices, new grain terminals, Youth Committees, growth in the branch, seafarers’ centre and ITF issues. Next was the Tasmanian Branch report which was delivered by Branch Secretary, Jason Campbell.Jason spoke on diving issues, Women’s Committees and a report on the Tasmanian Branch Conference.Next was the Northern Territory Branch report delivered by Thomas Mayor, Branch Organiser. Thomas reported from the Branch Conference, Youth Committees, Women’s Committees and work opportunities. There is good growth in membership in this Branch, especially in tug and barging and construction.The last agenda item was the Victorian Branch report which was presented by the Branch Secretary, Kevin Bracken. Kevin stated that there has been good growth in membership in Melbourne. Kevin went on to report on other issues in the Victorian Branch such as recruitment and unemployment. Day two, 16 October, opened under the heading ‘The Union’s International Strategy’. In this session there were reports from all the international guests from New Zealand, Vanuatu, PNG, Fiji and Timor Leste. In this session Joe Fleetwood gave a New Zealand report. He touched on Maritime NZ issues, organising workers, industrial legislation changes, the Ports of Auckland dispute and other issues facing NZ workers and their unions. The next session was an address from Mr Pedro Monzon Barata, the Cuban Ambassador to Australia. He spoke of the solidarity and support being given by the Maritime Union of Australia.

The next session was the veterans’ report delivered by Secretary MUA Veterans, Fred Krausert. Fred spoke on health issues, union leadership and the Australian trade union movement.Next was a presentation headed ‘Growth and Campaign Team Report’ delivered by Assistant National Secretary Ian Bray. There has been growth in the MUA membership of 8%.After lunch we had a branch report from the Southern NSW Branch from Garry Kean, the Branch Secretary. Garry spoke about growth in the Branch, collective agreements and the increase in shipping. Next was the Sydney Branch report delivered by the Branch Secretary, Paul McAleer. Paul spoke on developments with the Sydney Ferries’ automation, NSW trade union movement and the MUA National Conference remits. In this section I took the opportunity to thank the Sydney Branch for standing with us in our Ports of Auckland dispute, the attention they gave the Maersk Brani and Maersk Aberdeen was a true showing of Trans Tasman solidarity.In the middle of the afternoon we had a session under the heading of ‘Guest Labour and Workplace Relations in the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry’. Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Chris Bowen, delivered the first part of the presentation, and Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Bill Shorten, the second part of the presentation. There is an immediate need to stop foreign companies using foreign workers in the Australian offshore oil and gas industry. The last session for the day was a panel session under the heading of ‘The Trade Union Strategy for the Resource sector, Guest Labour, Bargaining, Workforce Development and Australian Content’. AWU National Secretary Paul Howes spoke on all the industry and factory closures with the subsequent redundancies.Day Three, Wednesday 17 October, opened with a report on shipping. This report was delivered by Warren Smith.Warren spoke on single voyage permits, shipping reform and on the changes that are to be delivered within the legislation. Paddy Crumlin spoke on foreign crewing, labour relations and workplace development.After smoko we had a session under the heading of ‘The Union’s Political Strategy 2012 and 2013’.After Paddy Crumlin’s introduction, we had an address from George Wright, National Secretary of the Australian Labor Party. George spoke on the importance of returning a Labor Government. The defeat of a Labor Government will bring immediate attacks on unions, on workers, their conditions of employment and their families. After lunch we had a MUA/AWU hydrocarbons alliance session from Australian Workers’ Union National Secretary Paul Howes and Assistant National Secretary, Scott McDine.This session was followed by a session under the heading ‘The Future for Manufacturing and Mining’. The Australian unions in Transport, Manufacturing and Mining addressed the Council. Speakers like Tony Maher expanded on the above issues.Day Four Thursday 18 October opened with a Queensland Branch report which was delivered by Mick Carr, the Branch Secretary. Mick spoke on hours of work, recruitment and agreement negotiations.This report was followed by other Branch reports.At this stage I had to leave the Council meeting and head back to Auckland as facilitation was set down with the Ports of Auckland.It was, as usual, a positive and productive National Council.


ILWU – Fighting for DockworkersThe MUNZ 2012 Conference Opening Address was given by Robert McEllrath, International President of the ILWU (International Longshore and Warehouse Union). In addition to President McEllrath, the other three international officers of the ILWU also attended the Conference, Vice President (Mainland) Ray Familathe, Vice President (Hawaii) Wesley Furtado, and International Secretary–Treasurer William E. Adams.President of the ILWU Canada Section, Mark Gordienko, was also in attendance.MUNZ President Garry Parsloe introduced President McEllrath and gave a background of his leadership to the labour movement, and noted the honour of this group of international officers from one of the leading unions of North America making the time in their busy schedules to attend our Conference.Robert McEllrath started working on the docks at the Port of Vancouver, Washington in 1969 after he finished high school.

Within years, his co-workers were electing him to a variety of positions at Local 4, including their Executive Board, Dispatcher and Labor Relations Committee.In 1993, McEllrath was appointed to the union’s important Coast Committee, the body that oversees the Longshore Division contract covering over 15,000 dockworkers in California, Oregon, and Washington. He was elected to that position for another term in 1997.In the year 2000, McEllrath was elected as Vice President of the International Union, and was re-elected to that post again in 2003.In 2006, McEllrath was elected International President of the ILWU where he represents over 60,000 members along the West Coast, which includes members in Canada, Alaska, and Hawaii.The ILWU represents 42,000 members in over 60 local unions in the states of California, Washington, Oregon, Alaska and Hawaii. An additional 4,000 members belong to the Inlandboatmen’s Union of the Pacific, which constitutes the Union’s Marine Division. Another 14,000 members belong to the autonomous ILWU Canada. Last year, the Panama Canal Pilots’ Union affiliated with the ILWU as well.The ILWU was established in 1937, following the 1934 West Coast Waterfront Strike, and was led for many years by the Australian born Harry Bridges. It has a strong history of militant working class struggle.President McEllrath spoke to the MUNZ Conference on many of the struggles of US workers. These included changes since the 2002 lockout on the West Coast docks, with a more aggressive corporate agenda since the 2008/2009 economic crisis.The ILWU had fought battles at the Rio Tinto owned borax mine in Boron, California, where it negotiated a contract after a 3 month lockout in 2010, which generated successful international support, including from MUNZ.More recently, the union had been battling for secure jobs at the EGT Grain Terminal in the Port of Longview, Washington, signing a contract earlier in 2012.One negative issue was unions working against each other, which was creating problems.International communication and solidarity in the union movement of paramount importanceThe ILWU had supported MUNZ at the Ports of Auckland dispute and was also supporting European dockers in their battle against the European port directive aimed at undermining secure jobs.

Trans-Pacific unity at Conference 2012: from left, MUNZ Assistant National Secretary Ray Fife, ILWU Canada Section President Mark Gordienko, MUNZ National Vide President Carl Findlay, ILWU International Secretary Treasurer William E. Adams, MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe, MUNZ General Secretary Joe Fleetwood, ILWU International Vice President (Mainland) Ray Familathe, ILWU International Vice President (Hawaii) Wesley Furtado, and ILWU International President Robert McEllrath (photo by Alan Windsor)

Robert McEllrath


ILA – East Coast dock workers build linksNational President Garry Parsloe introduced Ken Riley, President International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) Local 1422, South Carolina, USA.This was the first time an ILA delegation had attended a MUNZ conference. The ILA represents dock workers on the east coast of the USA and Canada and the Great Lakes.Ken Riley thanked MUNZ for the opportunity to present to the conference. He introduced his colleagues Mike Payne and Mark Bass and brought greetings from the ILA president. He spoke of the devastation to the ports and workers on the US East Coast caused by hurricane Sandy.The ILA is looking to form a department of strategic campaigns, close pacts with dockworkers’ unions. Contract negotiations are currently very challenging. The US Election outcome would have a direct effect on workers’ issues including an increase in automation and the reopening of the Panama Canal.

Canadian dockers

President of the ILWU Canada Section, Mark Gordienko brought greetings from all the maritime unions in Canada.It was noted by MUNZ how the Canadian unions had given great support during the Ports of Auckland dispute.President Gordienko explained the history of Canadian west coast dockers, who lost a strike in 1935 and didn’t have a union in Vancouver for 13 years. They then set up a relationship with the ILA and are now an autonomous section of the ILWU.Conditions in Canada compared to USA and New Zealand are favourable.One local issue was where a Rio Tinto owned aluminium smelter would not employ ILWU workers and used ship’s crew to drive cranes. Discussions on this matter were a major issue.

Japanese workers affected by natural disastersMUNZ National President Garry Parsloe introduced President of the All Japan Dockworkers Union (Zen Kowan) Akinobu Itoh and spoke of the support Zen Kowan had provided in the past to New Zealand workers.President Itoh passed sentiments of gratitude for support during the earthquake and tsunami in Japan 2011. Many Zen Kowan members were greatly affected by this disaster.Issues facing Zen Kowan were casualization and protecting job conditions of workers.President Itoh encouraged the liaison and solidarity of dock workers internationally.He thanked MUNZ for the opportunity to attend and made a presentation to the national officers.

All Japan Dockworkers’ Union Zen Kowan General Secretary Akinobu Itoh (centre) receives a certificate of appreciation to his Union for their support in the Ports of Auckland dispute, from MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe (left) and MUNZ General Secretary Joe Fleetwood (right) (Photo by Alan Windsor)

Kenneth Riley, President of ILA Local 1422 in Charleston, South Carolina, receives a certificate of appreciation to his Union for their support in the Ports of Auckland dispute, from MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe (left) and MUNZ General Secretary Joe Fleetwood (right).Brother Riley is also an International ILA Vice President and Executive Council member and President of the South Carolina AFL-CIO (Photo by Alan Windsor)

ILA delegates Darryl “Mike D” Payne (Vice President ILA, Ports Council, Florida) and Mark Bass (President Local 1410, Alabama)


ITF campaigning in OceaniaNational President Garry Parsloe welcomed Shannon O’Keeffe, Campaigns’ Director for ITF based in Sydney, and thanked her for her immediate action and help during the Ports of Auckland mediation, disseminating information. The 2009 ITF Oceania conference enabled an ITF office to open in Sydney, reflecting the commitment of the region to drive power, and exercise solidarityKey goals for the ITF included building campaigning capacity and growth in region, building capacity in freight forwarding.Priorities for transport industry are supply chain campaigning, and organising regional supply chains. Unions in the region are working together and building capacity. The ITF would continue to support MUNZ.Garry thanked Shannon for her presentation and General Secretary Joe Fleetwood presented her with a certificate of appreciation.

RMT: international solidarity correct approach

MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe introduced Steve Todd, National Secretary RMT (UK) and thanked him for his attendance. The RMT is a leading UK transport union that covers seafarers, dockers and rail workers including London Underground.Steve thanked MUNZ for the opportunity to attend and address the conference, and brought greetings from RMT Executive Committee.A common theme faced by many unions was other unions encroaching on their areas of organizing.UK issues included the “austerity” attacks, significant job cuts in the UK transport industry, imported labour being paid low rates, high unemployment.International solidarity was the way to approach these problems.Garry thanked Steve for his address and invited questions. Joe presented Steve with a certificate of appreciation, and Steve made a presentation of Edinburgh crystal.

Global Mining IndustryAndrew Vickers, the General Secretary of the Mining and Energy Division of the CFMEU, was one of our Australian guests.Andrew thanked MUNZ for the invitation and opportunity to address the conference, and brought greetings from CFMEU members. The CFMEU (Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union) was formed by an amalgamation of a number of unions formed 20 years ago. The benefits starting to bear fruit as a whole union.Total membership is 115,000 and issues faced by the CFMEU were casualisation of the work force and major mining companies moving into Australia and not employing union members.MUNZ is rebuilding the strong historical relationship with the Australian miners now in the CFMEU. The Australian miners union was one of the strongest international supporters of New Zealand waterfront workers in 1951, levying their members and sending substantial financial support. MUNZ is also affiliated with the CFMEU Mining and Energy Division through the Global Mining and Maritime Initiative.

MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe (left) and General Secretary Joe Fleetwood (right) present a certificate of appreciation to CFMEU Mining and Energy Division General Secretary Andrew Vickers

Shannon O’KeeffeSteve Todd


New Zealand UnionsSecretary of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions, Peter Conway, passed on apologies from CTU President Helen Kelly who was in Geneva attending a meeting of the International Labour Organisation. On behalf of the CTU he congratulated MUNZ on their conduct in the Ports of Auckland dispute.New Zealand unions were facing many live issues including Ports of Auckland, and the fishing industry.Massive deregulation had created health and safety issues, attacks on working conditions including the 90 day rule. Important rights of workers were being traded away.The CTU’s attention had been dominated by several major disputes in the past year including the Ports of Auckland and the AFFCO meatworkers’ dispute.There was a need to continue to show continued solidarity, keep campaigning, and be innovative in facing challenges – privatisation, taxation cuts, unemployment, overseas migration, changes to the Employment Relations Act.A constructive meeting had been held in Tauranga in October between unions and iwi leaders to build a relationship.

Prospects for a Worker Friendly GovernmentMUNZ National President Garry Parsloe welcomed David Shearer MP, Leader of the Labour Party, to conference along with Darien Fenton MP and Phil Twyford MP.Garry acknowledged the support of the Labour Party, and David Shearer’s personal support to the picket at the Ports of Auckland dispute, and his continued support of MUNZ.David Shearer introduced Darien Fenton MP, Labour Party spokesperson on labour issues, and Phil Twyford MP, Labour Party spokesperson on transport.He thanked MUNZ for its continued staunch stand on behalf of its members and defending the rights of New Zealanders.David stated that unions are a vital part of the vision to make this country a better place and that he remains committed to the values that formed the Labour Party.There will be direct influence from the Unions in the way the Labour Party moves forward.

The Labour Party is about people, family, communities and works to protect jobs, income, rights at work, the rights of members to continue bargaining and ensure regular ongoing dialogue between the Unions and the Labour Party.He spoke on key issues that the Labour Party had opposed including the 90 day rule, the Warner Brothers agreement, poverty, driving down in wages, and the poor safety record in New Zealand workplaces, as well as speaking on issues facing ports and coastal shipping.He thanked MUNZ for their support of the Labour PartyGarry thanked David Shearer for his speech and welcomed Darien Fenton to address conference.Darien thanked MUNZ for the opportunity to speak and welcomed international guests.MUNZ provides a reminder why solidarity matters.It was 100 years since the 1912 strike at Waihi mine and the death of Frederick George Evans during this strike was being commemoratedDarien spoke on the programme to fight the changes to labour laws National is planning which will attack low income workers, rights to bargain, and mean the fining of workers for partial strike action.Health and safety is a priority issue for the Labour Party – current statistics are a national disgrace. There is a direct link between health and safety and workers’ rights.Garry thanked Darien Fenton for her speech and welcomed Phil Twyford.Phil thanked MUNZ for their support to him as MP.The Labour Party’s role was to work on serious reforms and unions will assist in doing this to build a 21st Century transport system for New Zealand.Phil stated the National Party’s focus is on roads, with local and public transport being neglected in the interest of the trucking industry. Labour wants to see a transport system that gets the best out of rail, ports, and reduce the number of trucks on the road.It was also important to keep ports in public ownership and make big infrastructure decisions in the interests of all New Zealanders.

Changes to Employment Relations LawAnthea Connor of law firm Oakley Moran spoke on key legislative changes that will impact on collective bargaining.These included:• Removal of the 30 day rule for new employees to be covered by the collective agreement• Duty of good faith will not require parties to conclude a collective agreement• Employers will be able to opt out of multi employer collective bargaining• Where there is a partial strike, the proposal is that an employer can opt to reduce the striking or locked out workers’ pay. The union would be required to give notice of strike.

David Shearer

Maritime Union of New Zealand Fourth Triennial ConferenceWellington, New Zealand, 5–9 November 2012


Front row from left: Kenny Riley (ILA), Ian Bray (MUA), Scott McDine (AWU), Akinobu Itoh (Zen Kowan), Ray Fife, Joe Fleetwood, Garry Parsloe, Carl Findlay, Robert McEllrath (ILWU), Mark Gordienko (ILWU), Steve Todd (RMT UK), Andrew Vickers (CFMEU)Second row from left: Ray Familathe (ILWU), Kevin Forde, Will Tracey (MUA), John Whiting, Bill Lewis, Kevin Moore, Mike Clark, Alan Windsor, Daniel Staley, Tarryn Hamilton, Jimmy King, Ben Hathaway, Kellianne Hunt (MUA), Jimmy Woods, Dave Schleibs (MUA), William E. Adams (ILWU)Third row from left: Jenny Neilson, Marion Lesslie, Craig Harrison, Dave Morgan, Jesse Nichols, George Woods, Terry Ryan, Peter Harvey, Tony Mowbray, Bill Connelly, Grahame MacLaren, Peter Torrance, Bradley Clifford, Harry Holland, Wesley Furtado (ILWU)Fourth row from left: Eric Dunne, Terry Osborne, Terry Whitehead, Arthur Whittaker, Stephen Smith, Selwyn Russell, Tony Westrupp, Craig Marsh, Ken Ziegler, Slim Forde, Andy Gordon (RMT UK,) Chris Cain (MUA), Ramesh Pathmanathan, Greg Keen, Paul NapierBack row: Tracey Foster, Dein Ferris, Tony Townshend, Mark Bass (ILA), Stuart Crawford, Russell Mayn, James Kirkham, Justin Dimond, Graham Brown, Mike Payne (ILA), Ben George, Dave Thorpe, Trevor Hanson, Tania KahuiPrint copies of this photo can be ordered online from http://www.photoservices.co.nz/


Maritime Union of New Zealand Fourth Triennial ConferenceWellington, New Zealand, 5–9 November 2012

Front row from left: Kenny Riley (ILA), Ian Bray (MUA), Scott McDine (AWU), Akinobu Itoh (Zen Kowan), Ray Fife, Joe Fleetwood, Garry Parsloe, Carl Findlay, Robert McEllrath (ILWU), Mark Gordienko (ILWU), Steve Todd (RMT UK), Andrew Vickers (CFMEU)Second row from left: Ray Familathe (ILWU), Kevin Forde, Will Tracey (MUA), John Whiting, Bill Lewis, Kevin Moore, Mike Clark, Alan Windsor, Daniel Staley, Tarryn Hamilton, Jimmy King, Ben Hathaway, Kellianne Hunt (MUA), Jimmy Woods, Dave Schleibs (MUA), William E. Adams (ILWU)Third row from left: Jenny Neilson, Marion Lesslie, Craig Harrison, Dave Morgan, Jesse Nichols, George Woods, Terry Ryan, Peter Harvey, Tony Mowbray, Bill Connelly, Grahame MacLaren, Peter Torrance, Bradley Clifford, Harry Holland, Wesley Furtado (ILWU)Fourth row from left: Eric Dunne, Terry Osborne, Terry Whitehead, Arthur Whittaker, Stephen Smith, Selwyn Russell, Tony Westrupp, Craig Marsh, Ken Ziegler, Slim Forde, Andy Gordon (RMT UK,) Chris Cain (MUA), Ramesh Pathmanathan, Greg Keen, Paul NapierBack row: Tracey Foster, Dein Ferris, Tony Townshend, Mark Bass (ILA), Stuart Crawford, Russell Mayn, James Kirkham, Justin Dimond, Graham Brown, Mike Payne (ILA), Ben George, Dave Thorpe, Trevor Hanson, Tania KahuiPrint copies of this photo can be ordered online from http://www.photoservices.co.nz/


Impressions on a first MUNZ conference By Jennifer Neilson 3751 Local 13

I went to my first Triennial Conference held in Wellington which started Tuesday 6 November. My first time experience at the Conference was overwhelming, exciting, intense, invigorating and humbling. I was shocked and stunned that our comrades internationally are sharing the same cancers that are forming in our workplaces. From the Conference it was obvious there are 3 main issues globally: Yellow Associations (new unions forming and fighting against existing genuine unions), slave labour (large international companies taking advantage of cheap labour and exploiting the workforce), and Court cases (Companies that want to split our strong militant union, targeting delegates and executive members in court). Another hurdle the Union faces is new legislation being passed by Government that strongly favours the employer. The most powerful tools in any Union are solidarity, education, and Health and Safety. Unfortunately, we have a new wave of an exploitative capitalist class, but they don’t count on our trans-union solidarity.On the flip side it was great to reunite with three other Union Sisters – Marion Leslie (MUNZ Wellington), Tania Kahui (MUNZ Wellington) and Kellie Hunt (MUA) and also to meet our fellow comrades nationally and internationally that attended the Conference.

Women delegates at the 2012 MUNZ Conference, from left:Jennifer Neilson (MUNZ Auckland Local 13), Tania Kahui (Wellington Branch), Marian Lesslie (Wellington), Kellianne Hunt (MUA West Australian Branch).

Transport Sector Unionism

National Secretary of the RMTU, Wayne Butson, was accompanied by Howard Philips, RMTU National Vice President, and brought greetings from National President, Aubrey Wilkinson.Wayne acknowledge the struggles and passed on solidarity to members of Local 13.Both unions have the same issues – casualisation, non-unionised workers, threat to rail ferries, ERA changes.An amalgamation strategy would assist in gaining power and influence.

Pike River MemorialThe EPMU was one of the first unions to support the picket in Ports of Auckland and provide financial support, said MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe when he welcomed EPMU National Secretary, Bill Newson and EPMU Assistant National Secretary, Ged O’Connell to the Conference.Bill Newson offered best wishes from EPMU National President Don Pryde and paid tribute to MUNZ action during the Ports of Auckland disputeBill offered formal thanks to MUNZ for the help and support they gave EPMU and the families around the Pike River disasterA presentation was made on the Pike River Coal mining disaster covering deregulation of health and safety laws that had led to the disaster.

Maritime Legislation Update

Keith Manch, Director of Maritime New Zealand, made a presentation on maritime law changes after being welcomed by MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe. The mission of Maritime New Zealand was making life at sea safer.Mr Manch went over Maritime New Zealand’s structure as a crown entity, and discussed the Marine Legislation Bill and what this covers, as well as aspects of the Rena disaster.A number of questions were taken from the floor regarding box nets on gangways, the liability of ship owners and operators for incidents such as the Rena, and the independence of ship surveying.

Training UpdateMUNZ Trainer Craig Harrison of Local 13 made a presentation on the development of the MUNZ Training Programme. Workers need to look after workers, and rank and file members must have the competence, skills and support to work on claims and educate younger members.The new basic training course for delegates included sections on structure of the union, how to make decisions, health and safety, ERA, delegates handbook, and health and safety checklists.The intention is to have courses around the country.


Electrical Trades UnionNational President Garry Parsloe welcomed Allen Hicks, Assistant National Secretary of the Australian Electrical Trades Union (ETU). Allen thanked MUNZ for the invitation and made a presentation on ETU which represents 65,000 members covering all aspects of the electrical industry. One issue faced by the ETU is the current licence to do electrical work in Australia is under attack from within the industry.Enterprise migration agreements allow mining companies to employ workers from overseas whereas the ETU aim is to give Australians jobs in the first instance and promote apprenticeships.Allen had attended the Ports of Auckland picket with some of the Queensland/NT branch. MUNZ members were very hospitable and the ETU would be happy to host any members in Sydney.A further presentation was made to Chris McGaw, President of the ETU Queensland and Northern Territory, who was in attendance, as well as Queensland and NT State Secretary Peter Simpson who had been delayed.

Trans Tasman Oil and Gas AllianceThe 2012 Conference featured a panel discussion on issues for the Trans Tasman Oil and Gas Alliance, featuring Chris Cain (National Vice President, MUA), Scott McDine (Assistant National Secretary, AWU), Mike Clark (Wellington Branch Secretary, MUNZ), and Paul Tolich (Senior National Industrial Officer, EPMU).Garry introduced the panel and invited Christy Cain who delivered a message from the West Coast of Australia workers.Chris noted that members should ensure they take information and support back to other workers from conference, particularly young membersMUA is a strong union prepared to act on its words, and is currently being sued by Chevron, the ABCC, BHP, and TK.Chris gave an overview of the actions taken by MUA. The importation of overseas labour at greatly reduced rates is of major concern, and a federation with NZ workers.Scott McDine of the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) paid credit to MUNZ with the range of international attendees, Leader of the Opposition and CTU all in attendance speaking to the standing of MUNZ in New Zealand.Scott spoke against amalgamations – this had set his union back in 1993, based on political lines rather than industrial.Issues he identified included the aluminium sector, closures and redundancies. Scott thanked MUNZ for the invitation, and gave apologies on behalf of Paul Howes, AWU National Secretary who could not attend, and presented a banner. Joe thanked Scott for his presentation and presented the AWU with a certificate of appreciation.Mike Clark, Wellington Branch Secretary of MUNZ, thanked the national officials and extended a warm welcome to Wellington to guests from the Wellington Branch.Unemployment in the off shore oil and gas industry is becoming of epidemic proportions and MUNZ was working closely with the MUA on this issue. Paul Tolich, Senior National Industrial Officer, EPMU, thanked MUNZ for the opportunity to address the conference on the oil and gas alliance. The Alliance is a practical expression of unity, solidarity, collective activity, and international collaboration.Paul spoke on health and safety issues in the industry that needed improvement and an approved code of practice.

Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA)ILWU International Vice President, Ray Familathe, told conference that delegates at the ILWU conference in San Diego had passed a motion regarding the Trans Pacific Partnership trade pact which will negatively affect workers. The next round of negotiations on this partnership would be in Auckland on 3–12 December at Sky City. The ILWU had resolved to instruct the US Congress to oppose the TPP – and to oppose free trade agreements that don’t have social conditions to protect workers, protect the environment and national rights. Ray urged conference to consider passing a similar resolution.Ray also sought MUNZ support for the December cross border campaign event, which MUNZ General Secretary Joe Fleetwood spoke at via audio link.

Ray FamilatheILWU

MUNZ General Secretary Joe Fleetwood with ETU Assistant National Secretary Allen Hicks


Offshore Hydrocarbon IndustryGeneral Secretary Joe Fleetwood made a presentation on offshore sector strategy.This included an overview of shipping employers, collective employment agreement, and manning levels.Sector issues included health and safety, an ageing workforce, box gangway nets, joint manning of rigs, ship inspections, training, rig shifts, and legislation changes.The next stage was to set specific goals for the sector, a timeframe to achieve goals and a report back to National Council.

TerminalsNational Vice President Carl Findlay presented a report on terminals.Issues included yellow associations, lack of organising strategy, energy on holding the line, ongoing attacks in industrial political and legal domains, automation, technological change, a succession plan for union, and privatisation.Action points on the POAL dispute, yellow associations, proactive strategy.Full mapping of the sector was required and a survey of branches is being undertaken, with a report back to National Council in 2013.Goals included dealing with Yellow associations, a Ports’ strategy, and prioritizing industry issues for an action plan.

Coastal ShippingNational President Garry Parsloe gave the coastal shipping and ferries report, detailing shipping employers, agreements and members employed.Sector issues included health and safety, box gangway nets, seafarers doing dockers work, retention of superannuation contributions, new shipping companies in receivership, percentage payment regarding union fee per company, projected new vessels, training, qualifications, and employment levels of women.

Bulk and General StevedoringAssistant General Secretary Ray Fife gave the presentation on bulk and general shipping.Bulk and general sector was in decline with containerisation, mechanisation, diminishing cargoes, yellow associations playing a negative role. Issues included work hours, and high use of casuals.Sector mapping had produced info on variation in pay for casuals, lack of career path and secure income, health and safety, yellow associations.Key action points were health and safety, yellow associations and a Bulk and General Conference to be run in 2013.

The 2012 Conference featured a presentation on the development of the MUNZ national strategy which commenced in 2010 following the 2009 National Conference. General Secretary Joe Fleetwood said the National Strategy is the roadmap, plan and timeline to achieve the policy of the Union as resolved by the National Conference. The National Strategy addresses remits from 2009 Triennial Conference and is defined by our goal to be “A great, nationally organised Union that is a powerful industrial and political force in NZ and internationally.”The principles that underlie this strategy are being:• An effective and respected union• A disciplined and focused organisation• Building an active and empowered membership• Socially and financially supportive of our membership and community• Militant, progressive and democratic• Financially and structurally soundSome of the key practical issues behind the national strategy include health and safety incident reporting, building the delegate system, organising and communication with members, and amalgamation aiming at one union inside the port gates.The National Strategy comprises four sector plans covering Offshore oil and gas, coastal shipping, terminals, and bulk and general stevedoring.Each sector plan is headed by a national official.The sector plans follow a process which involves mapping the sector, identifying issues and priorities, setting goals for sector, a road map and time frame to achieve the goals, and accountability (endorsement and feedback) and achieving those goals over a set period for report back by the next Conference.

National Strategy 2012

Conference 2012 Sector Reports


Maritime workers building “trans–Pacific opposition” to TPPA free trade dealThe Maritime Union says the TPPA (Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement) is attracting massive “Trans Pacific” opposition, not just in New Zealand.Maritime Union General Secretary Joe Fleetwood says the Union is playing an active role in the campaign against the TPPA and has linked up to North American maritime workers fighting against the free trade deal.MUNZ supported protest actions in Auckland and Wellington earlier this month, and has already taken part in a rally on the US/Canadian border.Mr Fleetwood spoke via audio link to 1 December 2012 “Action and People’s Summit” at the Peace Arch on the US/Canadian border that brought together labor and trade advocates from the US, Canada and Mexico.“Our good friends in the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) on the west coast of North America were part of this event and invited us to show some working class globalisation in action.”Mr Fleetwood said these actions showed Prime Minister John Key’s recent statement that those opposed to free trade deals “live in a world that doesn’t want to see New Zealand intersecting globally with the rest of the world” was nonsensical.The Maritime Union held a conference last month in Wellington which had delegates attending from Australia, USA, Japan, Canada and the UK – all of whom were very aware of the dangers of free trade deals like the TPPA.These international delegates at the MUNZ Conference spoke on their strong opposition to the TPPA.“The funny thing is that the informed working class all around the world is opposing free trade deals like this and we are part of this movement of globalised solidarity – so it is actually Mr Key who is wrong on this matter.”Mr Fleetwood says maritime workers work in the world’s first globalised industry.He says maritime and transport unions around the world are mobilising against secretive, undemocratic and anti-worker free trade deals.MUNZ is very concerned about how secure jobs and health and safety may be undermined by free trade deals, which were part of a wider push to deregulate economies and hand control to corporate interests.MUNZ has been actively campaigning against free trade and for fair trade since the Union was formed in 2003.

ILWU settle LA strikeFour hundred and fifty office clerical workers in Los Angeles ended their one-week strike to secure good jobs for working families in the harbor community by winning new protections that will help prevent jobs from being outsourced to Texas, Taiwan and beyond.Tentative agreement on a new contract was reached between members of ILWU Local 63’s Office Clerical Unit (OCU) and 14 employers at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.“This victory was accomplished because of support from the entire ILWU family of 10,000 members in the harbor community,” said ILWU International President Robert McEllrath who praised the unity and solidarity of members, their families and thousands of community supporters.ILWU International Vice President Ray Familathe was assigned to help coordinate support for the clerical workers’ strike and assist them in the final negotiations. “Our campaign was always focused on securing good jobs and stopping the outsourcing that threatened working families in our harbor communities.”ILWU Local 63-OCU President John Fageaux thanked union members for having the courage to stand up and strike against powerful employers in order to protect good jobs into the future. “This was a community effort that will benefit working families for many years to come.”

Work pressure and long hours undermine health and safetyNew Zealand unions are calling for increased powers for health and safety representatives.In a submission to a independent task force on workplace health and safety, the Council of Trade Unions supported recommendations for a new health and safety organisation, stronger laws, and stronger penalties for corporate manslaughter.CTU President Helen Kelly says Pike River has been a tragic exhibition of the failure of de-regulated health and safety laws. “We need to put workers at the centre of our approach to health and safety.”Ms Kelly says health and safety workplace reps need to have the power to issue Improvement Notices, and Health and Safety Advisors were required in workplaces.The CTU had conducted an in-depth survey of over 1200 health and safety representatives. Findings show we need to take a serious look at the way we treat health and safety in New Zealand.“13 percent of people reported being bullied for raising a health and safety issue at work. Of those who reported being bullied, 45 percent were bullied by management, and 41 percent were bullied by co-workers. This is unacceptable.”Nearly 60 percent of respondents reported that taking short cuts contributed to illness or injury at their workplace. When workers are under pressure to perform tasks at speed, or feel pressured to meet production targets, they can feel forced to take shortcuts and put themselves and their workmates at risk. Workplaces and companies that put profit over safety have got to change their priorities, says Ms Kelly.Workers working long hours, late shifts or more than one job are all contributing factors to our shocking injury statistics. “We need to support our workers to be safe at work; part of this is paying a decent, living wage that so that workers can afford not to have to work all hours of the day just to get by.”


ITF International President and MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin gave the Conference keynote speech

Ngati Poneke powhiri

From left, MUA West Australia State Assistant Secretary Will Tracey and State Secretary Chris Cain

MUNZ Nelson Branch delegates, from left, Jesse Nicholas, Bones Westrupp and Bill Lewis

Local 13 delegates, from left, James Kirkham, Craig Harrison, Daniel Staley

Bluff Branch observers Graham Brown and Tarryn Hamilton

Conference 2012 in pictures


Guests of honour: Former MUNZ National President Dave Morgan and former MUNZ General Secretary Trevor Hanson

From left, Sue Windsor, Wellington Branch member Peter Torrance, MUNZ National Vice President Carl Findlay and MUNZ Wellington Branch President Alan Windsor

Former NZWWU Wellington President Chris Kenny and wife Dave Morgan with former National Secretary of the Cooks and Stewards’ Union and Joint National Secretary of the Seafarers’ Union, Dave Graham

Port Chalmers Dunedin Branch observers Paul Napier and Steven Smith

Wellington Branch observers, from left, Andrew Parker, Tony Mowbray and Bradley Clifford

Lyttelton Branch delegates from left, George Clark, Kevin Moore and David Thorpe

New Plymouth Branch observer Arthur Whittaker and delegate Terry Whitehead


Blast from the Past – Early 1960s on the “Kopara”Left to right: George Gregan, Arthur Taylor, Nick Devereux, Tubby Idion, Bert Garwood

Gisborne By Dein Ferris

At the Triennial Conference held 6 –9 November 2012 I stood down as the Gisborne delegate and National Executive member.I think I attended my first meeting somewhere around 1983 and have been there ever since.The Union has helped keep me in a job for some 40 odd years and still going,so I admit it was a little emotional saying farewell to something that has been part of my life for at least the last 30 years.It’s time for youth to come through.This will be my last magazine report.Every year at this time of the year I say the same thing.It’s our quiet time and we look forward to a bumper squash season.With the rail line south mothballed (the only rail line) we should pickup extra squash tonnage that would have been railed out in containers,particularly the Korean product.The weather has been grower friendly so all looks good.We have had a few outport transfers since our last report – scrapmetal and Juken products in Wellington and palletised butter out of Marsden Point. Logs, which are done by ISO, are still pouring through the Port with no signs of slowing down.As I have mentioned before, Gisborne is supposedly the second largest log port in the country.Summer has been in Gissy for a few weeks, so all that remains is to wish all a great summer, Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

WellingtonBy Mike ClarkThe Maritime Union held its 4th Triennial Conference in the Mercure Hotel, Wellington on Tuesday 6 November to Friday 9 November and it proved to be the most successful to date. Conference concluded a three year period of high activity for the Union with the Ports of Auckland dispute being high on the agenda. The Union hosted a number of International delegates and speakers which included the International President of the ITF and National Secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia, Mr Paddy Crumlin. Other guests were from the West Coast of America and Hawaii, and several officials from the East Coast of the USA.Also from Australia, the CFMEU, MUA, the ETU, the AWU, in addition to Japan Dockworkers and RMT (UK).The branch would like to extend their thanks to all the MUNZ members for their participation and help in making this conference a special occasion.Special mention to Marian Lesslie for manning the merchandise stall and to the van drivers Aly Baxter and Peter Torrance for their efforts. We have had some wonderful feedback on your behalf.Also to our General Secretary Joe Fleetwood and his trusty sidekick Ramesh, and communications officer Victor Billot, a huge effort and without your input we would have fallen short of the mark.

Interislander The Marine Engineers’ Association (AMEA)and the Merchant Services Guild (MSG) filed strike notice on Friday 16 November in support of their Collective Agreement claims, which would have seen a week-long ferry stoppage. This could have had serious implications for MUNZ members on the vessels as we would have faced suspension. The Strike Notice was withdrawn on Thursday 29 November due to the hard work of the relevant union’s negotiators. MUNZ has initiated bargaining for the re-negotiation of the Collective Agreement which expires on 31 January 2013.A preliminary meeting will hopefully be held before Christmas.

Offshore The Offshore industry is starting to pick up with the manning of a Seismic vessel just being completed with indications that there will be a couple more in the New Year. It is important that all members registered on the database have updated CVs and certificates ready to be distributed to the Offshore operators. If picked up please notify your local secretary and also the Wellington Secretary. It is important we know the movements of all members so we can update our register so members can be allocated work.

Whangarei By Ben HathawayMarsden Point has been very busy the last few weeks, with logs and sawn timber dominating. Union wise, besides our normal contracts of Triboard and veneer, we are loading butter, after an absence of 14 years, so hopefully it will continue.Seasons Greetings from the Far North.


MUNZ Bluff Branch old timers’ function, November 2012

At Conference 2012: Wellington Branch Assistant Secretary John Whiting, Wellington Branch Secretary Mike Clark, former National Secretary of the New Zealand Seaman’s Union Jimmy Woods, MUNZ Wellington Branch delegate Jimmy King, and MUNZ Nelson Branch delegate Bill Lewis

Stepping down: Two long standing members of the National Council received a standing ovation from members at the 2012 MUNZ Conference, from left Kevin Forde, President, Timaru Branch, and Dein Ferris, President, Gisborne Branch

National crisis: 175,000 unemployed

The Council of Trade Unions says the jump in the unemployment rate to 7.3% shows the government must make jobs a priority.CTU Secretary Peter Conway says 7.3% unemployment is the highest rate since March 1999, describing the figure as a “national crisis.” “The Government needs to act on jobs now.”There are now 175,000 people unemployed, 294,900 jobless and over 113,000 people looking for more hours at work. This means that we have 400,000 people out of work or looking for more work. Longterm unemployment is also growing with almost a third of unemployed people (32 percent) out of work for more than six months, and the number out of work for more than a year, almost twice what it was a year ago (21,100 compared to 10,900).

New dockers’ leader makes history as ITF’s first woman section head Sharon James was appointed in October to the post of ITF dockers’ section secretary, and is the first woman ever to lead one of the organisation’s industrial sections.James has worked for the ITF since 2003 in the seafarers’ and dockers’ sections and most recently as assistant secretary of the civil aviation section.

Petrobas exits New Zealand

Petrobras has returned its prospecting licences in New Zealand’s offshore oil and gas and and is pulling out of New Zealand after financial problems in its Brazilian home base.The major global oil company says it will sell $NZ18 billion of assets, including all refineries outside Brazil, this year – blaming rising costs and a fall in production.Petrobras has held an oil exploration permit for the Raukumara Basin since mid-2010.

News Digest


Mount Maunganui TaurangaBy Selwyn Russell

National ConferenceIt’s been a busy few months since the last magazine, with our attendance at the National Conference in Wellington in November being the highlight.The drive that our union put into this by having invited guests from around the world, giving their personal and financial support to our current disputes, and the sincere empathy from their members is something truly to be proud of. It must never be argued that the bonds that our past and current national representatives have made with our overseas comrades were in vain.It is because of them we can manage a united fight in solidarity against all oppressive actions.After listening to many speakers and their vision of how our union will progress into the future, you can rest assured that you are being represented with plans to retain your rights and conditions.This current Government will continue the attack on the workers, unemployed, and beneficiaries, by sending the jobs overseas or by not supporting businesses here, and by making unemployed look for jobs that do not exist. This will not stop.

We must be prepared and be ready to up our game by being involved in other disputes, by supporting others causes, as they have done with our Auckland comrades who are still fighting the right to have a secure job with secure conditions that recognise family values.

RenaThe slow demise of the Rena and its removal are conversational topics locally.One question is whether to remove it all or leave it just one metre under the mean low water mark. We have been in contact with the local iwi and they believe it should all be removed, as do many people.We currently have members who are still working on the support vessels with the removal at present.

Around the port

C3C3 has been sold to Patricks and we are all hoping this bodes well for the future. While at the National Conference, Mount Maunganui Tauranga Branch President Peter Harvey and I met with union officials from Australia who have been dealing with Patricks.It was very pleasing to hear them offer us any assistance we need in future communications with the company.

NZLWe are still slowly getting the numbers up here, and we are happy that we have got some guys who are upskilling and getting a training rate now, so a career pathway is starting to develop.

Ballance We are still are awaiting the outcome of the acidulations era deliberation and hopefully a good result.

ComvitaMembers quiet here and we are only a couple of months away from initiating bargaining.

Other sitesAt some of our other sites, Te Manu Toroa is currently in negotiations, we are initiating bargaining at Lakeland Queen, at NZM a bit quiet here as work has dropped off, at Wilsons Parking we are back to bargaining in February, and we have signed off at UCL.With our seafarers, some of the guys are slowly getting picked up again.

I would just like to thank both the old and the new Branch Committee at MUNZ here in the Mount, and to all members.We need you all to be involved, to be in contact and we are able to assist in any way. If you have an email address please supply it and update your details and I will keep you informed. We have stopwork meetings for all on the 2nd Tuesday at 9am in each month at our Rooms. You are all welcome and this is where you can find out what’s happening in your port.Your input is needed so please attend if available.So to all members thanks for your contribution and I look forward to next year to try and achieve your requirements for your employment.Have a very safe Christmas and New Year.Congratulations to the Maritimes magazine for their 10th year in publication. Well done!

Mount Maunganui Tauranga Branch Secretary Selwyn Russell and Branch President Peter Harvey at the MUNZ 2012 Conference


NapierBy Bill Connelly

Around and aboutThe tourist season started in October. According to the shipping list we can expect another sixty-three passenger vessels due over the summer months. It looks as though the city of Napier will be reaping the benefits of all the tourists, wishing to visit the ‘Art Deco’ capital of the world. C3 (Formerly Toll Logistics New Zealand Limited)A new Collective Agreement is in place until June 2013.

Hawke’s Bay Stevedoring Services Limited (HBSS)Negotiations on the Local Port Schedule have been completed and are in place until 30 April 2013.

Kelcold LimitedA Collective Agreement is in place until August 2013.

Triennial ConferenceHats off to the General Secretary Joe Fleetwood, Mike Clark, John Whiting and the numerous volunteers from the Wellington Branch who made the Triennial Conference such an outstanding success. As a visitor to Wellington I heard nothing but positive comments from delegates, observers and overseas guests about how the Conference was run.One of the most memorable items to come out of the conference was the letter from union lawyers Oakley Moran about gifting ownership of Waterside House back to the Union. With the abolition gift duties having been passed into law on the on 1 October 2012, this left the door open for the Union to proceed with straightening out the anomaly that has existed for many years over the ownership and title to the building. To this end the Finance Committee in their report to conference recommended the following:“The Finance Committee seeks approval from this conference to instruct the Union lawyer to draw up ‘Deeds of Gift’ from each port for the immediate transfer of their respective shareholdings to the National Union.With no tax or income tax liabilities, the way is now clear for all ports to transfer the title and ownership to the Union.As a member of the Finance Committee I strongly urge all ports to seek approval from their respective members to surrendering their share contained in the ‘Trust Deed’ back to the Union, so that that ‘Waterside House’ can rightly be owned by all of our members.”

Angela BoydLast year the Union and the Napier Branch sponsored Angela Boyd as a New Zealand representative in outdoor bowls to travel to Malaysia to compete against players from all over the world. Angela is the daughter of one of our long standing members, Doug Boyd.

Mandy BoydNot to be outdone younger sister Mandy has now been chosen to represent New Zealand at the World Bowls Championship, in Adelaide, from 23 November to 10 December.I understand that at twenty years of age Mandy is the youngest player ever to be chosen to represent New Zealand in her chosen sport. Her list of credentials is impressive to say the least. It is as follows:

International Six Nations Gold medal winner in the women’s fours played in Adelaide where New Zealand beat Australia in the final.Won the National Championship Women’s Fours 2010/2011 season.Runner up in the National Championship Women’s Fours, Pairs and Singles events for the 2011/2012 season.Awarded most consistent Women’s player in the 2011/2012 National Championships.Also awarded young player of the year for the 2011/2012 season.Doug is naturally very proud of his girls and the membership of the Branch wish Mandy every success at the World Championship.

As this is the last issue of the Maritimes for 2012, the Napier Branch would like to take this opportunity to wish all members and their families all the best for the festive season and a prosperous 2013.

Napier Branch member Doug Boyd with daughter Mandy Boyd, who along with sister Angela, is a New Zealand bowls representative

Napier Branch observer Greg Keen and Napier Branch delegate Bill Connelly at the MUNZ 2012 Conference


A 50 Year Ferrytale By Hector Thorpe MUNZ 3111The Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) and the New Zealand Rail Corporation (NZRC) trading as KiwiRail recently achieved a 50 year working relationship on the Wellington to Picton dedicated rail/freight/passenger ferry service, the Interislander.However, don’t expect any back slapping or high fives from past or current MUNZ members as the struggle continues for job security and retention of conditions. Nevertheless, they have achieved a significant milestone in employee–employer relations as the 50 year relationship has been based upon a unionised workforce covered by a collective agreement.

The “bad old days?”In 1962 when the first rail ferry Aramoana arrived at Wellington there were five maritime unions onboard: the Merchant Service Guild represented the Ships Officers, the Institute of Marine and Power Engineers represented the Engineer Officers, the Railways Officers Institute represented the Pursers, the Federated Cooks and Stewards Union represented the Catering Department and the Federated Seamen’s Union represented the Deck and Engine Room Ratings.The Guild gained coverage of the Pursers in the 1970s.The Seamen, and Cooks and Stewards, amalgamated in December 1989, along with the North Shore Ferry Employees, to form the New Zealand Seafarers’ Union. There was a further amalgamation in 2002 with the Waterfront Workers’ Union to establish MUNZ.During the early years individual unions endured their fair share of bumpy sailings on the ‘jail ferries’ as we referred to them. It’s a difficult ferry route so on occasion you will encounter a rough patch from the westerly wind belt or the southerly gales, as well as the natural wind tunnel effect of the Cook Strait which can whip up huge swells. Tory Channel and Pencarrow Heads also have a reputation as does the Karori Rip where the wind and sea meet the tide head-on.However, the main work place challenge for members has been confronting general workplace issues and taking a principled and progressive interest in broader international policies based around human rights and peace, particularly during the period when society was more accepting of Government complicity or inaction on these matters.As an example, a few years before the Aramoana arrived, our union, along with other unions were organising against the war in Vietnam and took action against the Aircraft Carrier, USS America when it arrived at Wellington for R and R, as we did against the French warship once their Government transferred nuclear testing to the Pacific.This was also a time when the National Government accepted the call that “No Maori” will be selected for the All Black tour of South Africa.The same year they also welcomed the first nuclear powered submarine USS Halibut to Auckland and Wellington, the USS Truxtun and USS Longbeach in 1976, the USS Pintado in 1978, the USS Haddo in 1979, the USS Truxtun again in 1980 and for a third visit in 1982, the USS Texas in 1983.The Government’s backing of the 1981 South African Tour Of New Zealand also concerned unionists.Over this period the Seamen’s Union leadership copped plenty of criticism as they played a leading role by taking direct action. However, as the momentum of opposition began to swing against nuclear powered ship visits, the Government received U.S. Vice President George Bush here in person to derail that opposition but, with the support of the Federation of Labour (FOL) the port worker unions were now joined by thousands of other unionists and his visit failed.

“Doing the right thing” also means giving, and the Seamen’s Union has taken a leading role of financial and moral support to many workers and organisations globally.One example was three month volunteer crewing of the Union Steam Ship cargo vessel Ngahere which was fully laden with food and medical supplies to assist the famine victims of the Sudan and Ethiopia.This was in part driven and co-ordinated by Gerry Hill of the Cooks and Stewards Union and embraced by all maritime unions working together alongside charitable organisations to achieve a positive goal.These days society is more enlightened and the assumption is as a country we just evolved into “doing the right thing” to help stop apartheid and assisting in establishing a nuclear free NZ policy.However, once again history brushes over the leadership role the Seamen’s Union played in effecting a momentum of policy change. Rather than be applauded for our contribution some politicians and business commentators remain hostile and at every opportunity still refer to our principled stance as “the bad old days”.

The first Rail FerryWhen the Union Steam Ship Company conventional cargo passenger vessel Tamahine exited the Cook Strait Wellington to Picton route, the Government allowed the New Zealand Railways Department to link the North and South Island Main Trunk Line with an innovative Rail Ferry.

Aramoana (“sea pathway”), 1962–1983 (3,968 tons gross)The Aramoana was built in Scotland and was managed and crewed by the Union Steam Ship Company. The small yet state of the art ‘rail’ ferry had a crew of 90 and could carry 788 passengers, 70 cars and 30 rail wagons.Fintan Patrick Walsh was President of the Federated Seamen’s Union (FSU) at that time and Jim Herhily was the National Secretary of the Federated Cooks’ and Stewards’ Union.As is policy today the Wellington Branch of MUNZ remains responsible for the day to day business and award negotiations for our members.So the past unions ensured their members benefited from the new efficiency system as it was termed, because the rail wagons could simply be shunted onto the ferry at Wellington, and shunted off again at Picton. This meant for the first time freight could stay in the same wagon the whole journey, reducing time and money. The first year alone there was a tripling of passengers and cars and a massive 12 fold increase in freight carried on the Aramoana as opposed to her predecessor, the Tamahine.The following year Fintan Patrick Walsh, who had served as Union President for 35 years, died. Interim president was Tom Anderson, then Tommy Martin, but it was his nephew the 41 year old Bill ‘Pincher’ Martin that headed the Union within 12 months.The Aramoana was also the largest vessel that came to assist in the rescue of the Wahine when it foundered on Barrett Reef on 10 April 1968.During this period in 1971 the Wellington Branch employed Kathy Whelan, at the time not yet 16.Kathy eventually became part of the retirement and welfare plan team, running the watchmen’s section of the union, running the out of port calls of the corner system, running the finances and eventually becoming New Zealand co-ordinator to the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF).


But most of all she was the person that could be relied upon to look after seafarers, our old timers, our sick and our lonely not only throughout the Wellington region but throughout the country. Kathy resigned in 2008 after 36 years with lots of affection and respect for her kindness and dedication from the union and membership.The Aramoana was upgraded at Sembawang Shipyard Singapore and after completing 22 years’ service was laid up in 1983 and sold the following year to the Najd Trading & Construction Company of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.View video footage of her first voyage via You Tube: Aramoana 1962

Aranui (“great pathway”), 1965–1984 (3,821 tons gross)The rail ferry business was so successful the Aranui was ordered and built at Newcastle, England. She was capable of carrying a similar amount of passengers, cars and railway wagons, as the Aramoana, effectively increasing rail capacity 100%.Two years later under Bill ‘Pincher’ Martins watch we became a National Union, the FSU was replaced by the New Zealand Seamen’s Industrial Union of Workers (NZSU).After twelve years of service the Aranui was rebuilt at Singapore to increase passenger numbers to 950. After completing a total of 19 years’ service she was laid up at Wellington in 1984 and sold along with the Aramoana to the Najd Trading & Construction Company.

Arahunga (“bridge”), 1972–2001 (3,914 tons gross)Arahunga was primarily a freight ferry, built at Scotland where the yard went into liquidation during construction. However, the liquidator allowed the yard workers to finish the job after the New Zealand Government guaranteed payment to suppliers. She was the first ferry managed by NZ Railways and could in fact carry 40 passengers.The following year in 1973 the youngest ever President of our union was elected, Dave Morgan was 32 years old. He, like all of his contemporaries, didn’t just get the top job of President or General Secretary, it was earned via the toughness of the onboard debating arena, the messroom, delegate meetings, shipboard meetings, the stop work meeting halls, executive and Branch Secretary positions.‘Pincher’ Martin did not stand for re-election. He returned to sea and remained an elected Wellington Branch National Councilor. Jock Ramsey was National Secretary for the Cooks and Stewards’ Union during this time followed by Toby Hill in 1974.The Arahunga was described as the “work horse” of the ferries not so much by the members, more from the company point of view, basically because if they didn’t book any passengers she could continue to sail in rough weather when passengers ferry sailings had to be cancelled.She was refitted in 1984 which did allow an increase in passenger numbers to 100 and the last of her 32,662 voyages was from Picton to Wellington on 27 March 2001 where she set sail for the Indian breaker’s yards shortly thereafter.

Aratika (“Pathway”, 1974–1999, 3,879 gross tons)The Aratika was built at Nantes France as the second freight ferry. Shortly after however, the Union Steam Ship Company signaled the Wellington Lyttelton passenger route would be discontinued in 1976. So Railways had the Aratika rebuilt at Hong Kong United Dockyard increasing passenger capacity from 10 to 840 and car space from 4 to 70.During her 25 years of service she completed 27,265 voyages with one blemish on her record when in 1995 two cars were lost overboard while battling heavy seas and strong winds. She was finally sold in 1999 to the MBRS Line of the Philippines and renamed Virgin Mary.

Arahura (“Pathway to Dawn”, in service since 1983, 13,621 gross tons)The Arahura was built at Alborg, Denmark. The Danes won the contract based on a political strategy to appease the Danish Government who had opposed our agricultural access to the common market. Their Government welcomed this as their dockyards were facing strong competition from South Korea which had modern hi tech yards and lower wages. As it turned out it was of some value in forming a relationship with the Danish Maritime Unions as Gerry Hill recalls while at some of the ITF conferences he attended, the Danes remembered this job with some affection.The Arahura replaced the two earlier ferries Aramoana and Aranui and is the only ferry owned by KiwiRail. She was designed to load and discharge rail wagons and road vehicles simultaneously over the stern using the shore based double link spans. Much research also went into improving ship handling for the strong winds and the heavy swells she would encounter. She was also the first ferry to make the crossing in three hours, trimming 20 minutes off previous schedules. In all, 60 rail wagons, 132 cars, and 27 lorries could be carried.I have a special fondness for the vessel as it’s named after my ancestral homeland. Arahura is 5kms north of Hokitika, now a small settlement of a dozen houses but it was once a flourishing rural community of over 300 people many of whom were gainfully employed. Now with one street light and no shops or dairy it may seem insignificant to many as they drive by, but in Maoridom it still holds a special place of mana, as the Arahura River is the country’s main source of pounamu. So precious is pounamu, the South Island was named “Te Wai Pounamu”, the place of the greenstone. So it was with great excitement for my Grandmother Te Maori Tainui and other Kaumatua from Arahura to be invited to the Ship Blessing Ceremony at Wellington. Passenger and crew who have sailed on the Arahura may have noticed the large Pounamu and carving positioned at the boarding deck gifted by them during that ceremony.Three years later the Arahura supplied critical support in the rescue of 356 passengers from the stricken Russian cruise liner Mikhail Lermontov at Port Gore in 1986.Members will also recall in 1999 during a routine lifeboat drill near Picton, a 19 year old trainee officer was killed and three others were injured.By December 1989 the Seamen’s Union, led by National President Dave Morgan and National Secretary Gerry Evans, and the Cooks’ and Stewards’ Union lead by National Secretary Dave Graham and President Peter Cook, amalgamated to establish the NZ Seafarer’s Union (NZSU).

The Lynx (1) (‘Condor 10’, 1994–1998)The 37-knot, car-carrying fast ferry catamaran Condor 10 was chartered by Tranz Rail and marketed as The Lynx in response to Brooke McKenzie the Christchurch businessman who entered the trade with the high speed sea shuttle ‘Top Cat’. The Lynx would work the summer season here and then returned to work the northern hemisphere during their summer period.


Aratere (“Quick path”, 1998 to current, 12,596 Gross Tonnage)The Spanish built Aratere was the first ship built in 16 years for the Cook Strait. However, the foreign vessel had limited accommodation, the Bosun and Cooks have cabins the rest of the MUNZ members are “wo/wo” (walk on walk off). She can handle 369 passengers, 60 railway wagons, 20 tractor/trailer trucks and 130 cars. She also has the vacuum automated mooring system or ‘Ironsailor’ which was developed by Mooring International, of Lyttelton.However, through the media it was reported she was over priced, of poor design and dogged by faults thereby receiving the nick name ‘El Lemon’. Just two years into service she had to be withdrawn to spend two weeks in Auckland dry dock to get a new diesel engine block fitted.She wasn’t completely out of the media as heavy weather protocols were introduced after the “Voyage from Hell” on 3 March 2006. Nevertheless in her first 10 years of service she celebrated her 20,000th voyage.Last year she completed a lengthy and expensive five month refurbishment at Singapore’s Sembawang Shipyard with a 30 metre extension which increased capacity for passengers and freight.

Lynx (2) (“Condor Vitesse”, 1999–2000)The Condor Vitesse was built at Hobart, she is 86.6 m long and 5005 gross tons. Ruston diesels with a total of 28320 kW gave a speed of 40 knots, and could carry 800 passengers and 200 cars. She was Tranz Rails fast catamaran replacement for the Condor 10 for the 1999/2000 summer season.

Lynx (3) (“Incat 057”, 2000-–2003)The third Tranz Rail fast ferry to use The Lynx name was the chartered replacement for the 2000-2003 summer season after being used by the Australian Trade Commission.During this period after more than 10 years of talks in May 2002 at the Rotorua delegates conference it was voted 35 to 10 for amalgamation and the subsequent plebiscite was 259 to 166 in favour. A few months later Seafarers officials Dave Morgan, Garry Parsloe and Mike Williams met with waterfront officials Trevor Hanson, Terry Ryan, Phil Adams and Les Wells to sort out the final draft of rules. MUNZ was formed shortly afterwards.

Purbeck (2003–2005)Chartered by Tranz Rail in 2003 and ended in 2005. She was laid up in Wellington until 2006 when she was sold to Toll Holdings returning to service for a short period before being sold.

The Lynx (4) (“Incat 046”, 2003)The last of the chartered wave-piercing catamaran passenger vehicle ferries. She completed the 2003 season before the fast ferries were finally withdrawn due to operating losses and speed restrictions. It returned to Hobart and was laid up.

Kaitaki (‘Challenger’, 2005 to current, 22,365 Gross Tons)The Kaitaki is the largest Interislander ferry and can carry up to 1600 passengers and is the only ferry without a rail deck. She was built at Rotterdam in 1995 and after serving many trades and owners and having many name changes arrived in NZ as the Challenger, shortened from Stena Challenger. By this time Australian Toll holdings had bought out Tranz Rail in 2004 and they leased ‘Challenger’ officially renaming her Kaitaki in 2007. In 2009, it was announced that the initial five-year lease would be extended and that she would have to be returned to Stena Line in 2013 unless extended.

Deregulation and PrivatisationDuring the early 1980s the politicians started their deregulation of industries including the NZ Railways Department. Staff cuts were drastic and the infrastructure was reduced to sweeten a sale to overseas owners. Other Government tactics encouraged unions to merge, the Seamen, Cooks and Stewards and North Shore Ferry employees formed the NZ Seafarers Union in December 1989 and a few years latter in 1993 NZR was

sold to the USA based Wisconsin Central, Berkshire and Fay Richwhite and rebranded Tranz Rail.After many unhappy years under Tranz Rail unions continued to amalgamate as a legal necessity and to strengthen their position, so in 2002 the Seafarers, Wharfies and the Auckland branch of the Harbour Board Workers amalgamated to form the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ).By 2004, Australian Toll Holdings bought out Tranz Rail and times were even harder under their management. “From Toll to the Dole” was the “Take it or leave it” attitude of these new transnationals to the ferry crew on the Arahura. Accept a big cut to pay and conditions or be made redundant. The live-on-board positions were to be disestablished, with those made redundant forced into reapplying for their jobs in competition with other Toll employees and external recruits. I can recall MUNZ Wellington Branch Seafarer’s Secretary, Mike Williams saying “Toll’s ultimatum breached the Employment Relations Act because the crew’s contract was yet to expire”. In the same week Auckland rail workers faced an attempt by Toll to weaken their Multi-Employer Collective Agreement (MECA)But the facts of the case are, MUNZ members and Rail workers had put up with one foreign owner and this second foreign-owner was doing the same, picking on a loyal workforce that once sailed the Cook Strait at a rate of one return trip per day except Sunday, to a 24/7 operation, that requires skill and teamwork to fulfill such a hectic work schedule.In 2008 the Helen Clark led Labour Party and the Progressive Party coalition Government with confidence and supply support from NZ First, United Future and the Greens purchased Toll just months before the John Key National Party coalition was elected. We are now owned and operated by the state-owned rail operator NZRC and branded KiwiRail with approximately 4,100 staff unionised.

KiwiRail sectionsKiwiRail Interislander covers Cook Strait passenger and freight (Maritime Unions under this section).KiwiRail Freight and locomotives covers passenger services.KiwiRail Passenger services covers Tranz Metro, Coastal Pacific, TranzAlpine, Overlander and Tranz Scenic.KiwiRail Infrastructure which maintains and improves the rail network and operations of the train network.KiwiRail Engineering which covers locomotives and rolling stock, workshops and heavy engineering.

Over 36 million peopleOver 36 million people have travelled with Interislander since 1962.The Interislander ferries now carry nearly one million passengers, 210,000 vehicles, 73,000 trucks and 53,000 rail wagons per year.However, it’s not all plain sailing as we are back under a National Government determined to reintroduce failed asset sale policies.Let’s hope society is more enlightened this time around and we do not allow politicians to force policies onto us so we have to live in their so called “Real World” – a world where the sole consideration of our State Owned Enterprises is for profit, contracting out work then prepare them for sale, regardless if it means ripping the guts out of heartland New Zealand.National’s bloodless calculator doesn’t account for the benefit of having people gainfully employed and paying taxes. Like the West Coast rural settlement of Arahura where once mothers and fathers earned a decent wage working on the railways, forestry and mines and their working class kids aspired to be skilled and benefited from a flourishing neighbourhood. A situation that some politicians would have us believe was the “bad old days”.

Referencewww.interislander.co.nzwww.Tollnz.co.nz www.nzmaritime.co.nz www.thewahine.co.nz www.simplonpc.co.uk

Marcus Castell, Captain Michael Pryce, Graham Stewart, T. R. Collinge, Mike Triplett, David Grant, Joe Hendren, Chris Trotter, Gerry Hill, Don Franks, Mike Clark


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Documents

The Maritimes Summer 2012/2013