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The head of the Pulp and Paper Workers Union says a win against the owners of the Kawerau tissue paper mill help the current rebirth in unionism.
Workers at the mill, who were locked out by Swedish multinational Essity for six weeks, head back to work on Monday after accepting an offer in line with the recommendation of Employment Relations Authority mediators.
Tane Phillips says that works out at about14 percent over three years, about the expected rise in the cost of living over that period and well in advance of what the employer originally put on the table.
He says there was relief when the vote was taken.
“There was also pride, how galvanised our members were together, and with the community. Solidarity, acting as one, collective negotiations is the best way for skilled workers to get well compensated for what they do,” he says.
Mr Phillips says negotiations were slowed by the fact the managers with the authority to make the decisions did not come over from Australia.
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