The

Issue 28 • Summer 2009/2010MaritimesMagazine of the Maritime Union of New Zealand ISSN 1176-3418

Conference 2009 Special www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 1 ACC Hands off ACC Stop the privatization of our scheme

What’s going on with Some of the reasons ACC’s financial ‘crisis’

ACC? the Maritime Union Since the election the Government has and others oppose the sought to promote the idea that the ACC The Maritime Union is opposing the was in a financial crisis so severe that the “privatization by stealth” of ACC by the privatization of ACC only remedy was radical surgery. National Government. The Minister even used the word The Union is part of the ACC Futures • It is our scheme funded by levies paid “insolvent” to describe the financial state Network which is campaigning to keep by New Zealanders. Privatizing it will of the scheme. The truth is somewhat ACC as it is. hand our money over to Australian owned different. If ACC or parts of it are privatized, insurance companies. Merrill Lynch in ACC has revenue of over $4 billion a year workers will be worse off. Australia last year predicted a $200 million and expenditure of around $3 billion a In 2008 the National Party was elected to killing for insurers if ACC was privatised; year. It also has reserves of more than $10 government with a policy to investigate • ACC is administratively more efficient billion - it is far from insolvent. the opening of the work account of ACC than a system managed by private sector It is true that ACC has been facing to “competition” – which really means providers. The scheme was established increased costs as claims are increasing at privatization. as a public-owned provider precisely to a rate greater than population growth and By October 2009 this had become avoid the unnecessary costs of duplicating the cost of claims is increasing at a rate a clear commitment (without the systems and providing a profit to higher than inflation. promised investigation) subject only to insurance company shareholders; The impact of the recession on investments the Government’s ‘Stocktake’ of ACC • Levies will inevitably increase over and the change in accounting standards confirming the feasibility of the policy. time to meet these costs. When the work have also impacted on the Corporation, The Government has already said that it account was privatised in the late 1990s but the real driver for increases in levies is likely to get the answer it wants from private insurers were prepared to accept is the commitment of the Government to the Stocktake and is now speaking openly losses initially as they competed for fully fund ACC by building in the future about the possibility that more of the market share. costs of injuries today into today’s levies. ACC’s accounts could be handed over to These initial losses would have to be made Professor Tim Hazledine has exposed the private business. up at a later date. the problems with this approach in this The prospect of privatization of the work • Employer levies are more than twice as article in the NZ Herald. In it he likens account is what led to the formation of the high in Australia, Canada, and the USA full-funding of ACC to paying for all of ACC Coalition. where the private sector has a greater role your child’s education through to their in provider services than under ACC in graduation from university on the day Who and what is the NZ. they start school aged 5. • When the work account was privatised That is not an approach we take with any ACC Futures Coalition? last time unions and treatment providers other government services so why would reported that some employers were we do it with ACC? The ACC Futures Coalition formed placing pressure on workers not to lodge The answer is probably that it will make following a seminar held in September claims for workplace injuries. the privatization of the work (and other) 2008 on the future of ACC in light of the • When the work account was privatised accounts easier to undertake as it is the policies the political parties were taking last time treatment providers reported that same approach that private insurers are into the election. private insurers were reluctant to approve required to use when establishing their Our aim is to keep the current model of claims and were often late in honouring premiums and managing their funds. ACC as a single, publicly owned provider invoices. and to seek to maintain and improve the • When the work account was privatised scheme. We currently consist of a number last time workers were unsure about their of participating organisations representing entitlements and who their employer’s treatment providers, academics, insurer was. consumers and recreation providers, plus • ACC is not an insurance company unions. and the profit motive has no place in its Information about us can be found on our operations. In the words of the founder website www.accfutures.org.nz. of the scheme, Sir Owen Woodhouse, the scheme always had a “social welfare purpose and intent”. Overall we will end up paying more and getting less and the only beneficiaries will be the Australian insurers.

2 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz EDITORIAL A time of transition Edition 28, Summer 2009/2010 by Victor Billot Contents There has been what might be termed a changing of the guard in the Maritime Union over the last few months. This was evident at ACC 2 Conference 2009 page 10 our Triennial Conference in Wellington in October. Editorial and contents 3 I thought it was the most well run conference we have had so far. General Secretary’s report 4 It also came to my attention that we are seeing many long stand- Update from National President 5 ing members of the Union, including officials at the national and Union elections 6 branch level, move into retirement. News 7 Four well known and respected officials were awarded life mem- CTU report 8 ITF report 9 berships as acknowledgement of their contribution. Conference 2009 10 But their departure leaves a gap. Labour Party report 28 This transition period will have to be managed as we are moving MUA report 29 into uncharted waters with an economic recession and a National Port Roundups 30 Government to contend with. Health and fitness 40 It is good to see we have a mix of old and new national officials Wages 42 Port roundups page 30 following the Union elections. Viewpoint 44 I am confident that we have a good combination of officials age- Sports 46 Obituary 47 wise and geographically speaking as well as representing wharf Port contacts 47 and seafaring areas of the Union. There were a couple of remits passed at the Conference which I ‘The Maritimes’ is published quarterly by believe are vital to the future of the Union. the Maritime Union of New Zealand. Contact the One was a commitment to youth training and education. Maritime Union The other was a remit that affirmed the Maritime Union (now ISSN 1176-3418 affiliated to the Labour Party) must also seek to support other National Office parties who are potential allies on the left. National Office: Telephone: 04 3850 792 PO Box 27004 Both these remits are the example of the forward thinking we Fax: 04 3848 766 Wellington need to succeed as a union. Address: PO Box 27004, Wellington New Zealand While it was good to hear from all speakers, including the inter- Office administrator: Ramesh Pathmanathan Telephone: 04 3850 792 national speakers, I think in future it would be useful to break the Email: [email protected] Fax: 04 3848 766 Conference up into discussion groups, and have some presenta- Email: [email protected] General Secretary: Joe Fleetwood tions from rank and file members, or specific sectors within the Web: www.munz.org.nz Direct dial: 04 8017 614 Union such as youth, women or veterans. Mobile: 021 364649 Having said that, there were plenty of contributions from the Editor: Email: [email protected] Victor Billot Conference floor and it could never be said that maritime workers Mobile: 021 482219 are a shy and retiring bunch. National President: Phil Adams Fax: 09 9251125 As someone into gadgets, it was interesting for me to hear some Direct dial: 03 4728 052 Email: [email protected] different views on new technology. Some thought as unions we Mobile: 0274 377601 Mail: PO Box 339, Dunedin Email: [email protected] need to move into the “iPod age” whereas others stressed the New Zealand need for face to face organizing. I think we need both. National Vice President: Garry Parsloe We’ve got to be able to communicate and relate using the lat- Editorial Board: Direct dial: 09 3032 562 est tools. We’ve also got to always keep the focus on organizing, Joe Fleetwood, Phil Adams, Garry Parsloe Mobile: 021 326261 and Ray Fife training, stopwork meetings, political campaigning and the social Email: [email protected] side of union life. Deadline for all Port reports, submissions, Transport is a global industry and our links with global unions Assistant General Secretary: Ray Fife photos and letters: are important to us. Direct dial: 03 2128189 12 February 2010 for next edition Mobile: 0274 475317 At our Conference, speakers from different countries seemed to Email: [email protected] have different approaches. Cover photo: Despite the different styles, the message was the same. Tauranga Mount Maunganui MUNZ ITF Inspector: Grahame MacLaren The future for transport workers is with progressive trade union- members Jade Williams and Teeny Direct dial: 04 8017 613 Rayner, stevedores at C3, October 2009 ism backed by international solidarity and driven by the members. Mobile: 021 2921782 As this is the last issue for the year I need to give some personal Email: [email protected] For more on-line photos, see thanks. Firstly to those regular or occasional contributors to the www.flickr.com/maritimeunion magazine, whether officials or rank and file: without your efforts Communications Officer: Victor Billot Mobile: 021 482219 the magazine would not exist. Thanks to our photographers, including Fax: 09 9251125 Also special thanks to a few individuals. Edgar Spark whose efforts Alan Windsor, Luke Appleby, Dawn Clark, Address: PO Box 339, Dunedin with our Union database have meant that our mailing list system Rachel Fahey and others Email: [email protected] has been improved and kept up to date, and Ramesh Pathmanath- an whose administrative work keeps things ticking along. A special thanks to Jim Swann, of Southern Colour Print, for services above and beyond the call of duty in streamlining the production of the magazine. Finally, a thanks to Trevor Hanson. His support for the magazine since its modest beginnings in 2003 have been invaluable. He has had to front the media many times since I joined the Union and in this way he has contributed much to the high profile and respect the Maritime Union enjoys. www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 3 GENERAL SECRETARY’S REPORT 2009 Conference sets Union on future path

(CTU), Andrew Little (EPMU) and our The Timaru Port Network has set up a international guests were all thought meeting with the Minister of Transport provoking and delegates asked some good Steven Joyce in December to represent our questions. concerns. With the elections and Conference out of the way, we have a mandate and a MMP roadmap from the membership as to Since 1996 New Zealand has operated where they want to see the Union going in under the MMP system for our general the years ahead. elections. There will be referendums held on ACC whether we should keep MMP in the next The Maritime Union is part of the few years and already some conservative campaign to protect ACC. elements are putting the pressure on for a The ACC Futures Coalition has been return to the old system. established to promote the current model There have been a few problems with of ACC against attacks that claim that MMP, but these problems are more a result ACC is somehow in trouble. of politicians who have acted badly than The Government is testing the waters to the system itself. see if they could get away with privatizing MMP is more representative and it is a various ACC accounts and open these fairer system. to competition – a plan that was briefly One main problem with the old system introduced in the 1990s and which failed. is that it worked against the Labour The campaign goal is to keep ACC as a Party whose working class voters were publicly-owned single provider committed concentrated in cities and favoured the by Joe Fleetwood to the its original principles: maintaining National Party whose voters were more General Secretary and improving the provision of injury evenly spread over town and country. his is my first column as the prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and As a result we had the mad situation incoming General Secretary of the “no fault” compensation social insurance of Labour winning more votes in many Maritime Union of New Zealand. system for all New Zealanders. elections but still losing the election I’dT like to start off by thanking all We have some more information about this because it won fewer seats than National. members who voted in our union elections campaign in this edition of the Maritimes. Smaller parties could win large numbers of recently. It is the right and responsibility of votes but the system worked against them. all members to take part in this democratic Port of Timaru Since MMP was introduced, we have had nine years of Labour led Government and process. The new leadership team is in The Maritime Union is part of the Timaru four of National led Government. place. Port Network. This group was set up This is because MMP is basically a fairer I would also like to thank the outgoing following the public meeting we organized system. General Secretary Trevor Hanson who has in Timaru in September to bring together Most arguments against MMP are provided leadership to the Union for two the community to discuss the future of the negative. It is said that the old system decades, a massive commitment by any Port there after Fonterra withdrew their promoted “strong Government” but if we measure. local export cargo from the Port of Timaru remember the 1980s and 1990s both major Trevor was awarded life membership of in favor of long distance rail. political parties went rogue and swung to the Union at our National Conference in Representatives on the network also the political right. October along with long serving members include business, farmers and the district There was no way of stopping them and officials Denis Carlisle, John O’Neill council. until MMP came along and gave the and Terry Ryan. While each of these organizations has opportunity for other parties to influence We know Trevor will stay in touch with its own distinct interests in the port, we decisions and represent the people. the Union and we will be able to draw on believe that this is the first time such a In the last ten years the Green Party and his long experience of our industry in the diverse group has come together for some the Alliance Party have both contributed future. Thank you comrade. time, if ever. to Labour-led Governments and pushed The actions of Fonterra have come under worker friendly policies. Conference close scrutiny. The national executive of MMP is simply a system for electing MPs. our Union met with Fonterra manager Our 2009 Conference held in Wellington In itself in doesn’t mean we get good Nigel Jones earlier this year and firmly was a success and we have full coverage of Governments that work for working expressed our concerns. it in this edition of the Maritimes. people. But it does mean that a full range As part of the Timaru Port Network, the The Maritime Union was honoured of political views is represented. to have representatives from several Maritime Union has taken a leading role in driving a debate about the future of international maritime unions present, as I look forward to working with you all in regional ports such as Timaru. well as representatives from all our union 2010, and in the meantime wish members Should the future of regional ports branches. and families all the best for the festive such as Timaru be determined by the There was good debate on remits and the season. mood was generally forward thinking. The short term interests of large corporates presentations from Phil Goff (Labour Party such as Fonterra who essentially have a leader), Helen Kelly and Peter Conway monopolistic effect on the market? The Maritime Union does not think so.

4 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz PRESIDENT’S REPORT A busy year in the maritime industry

Union elections Conference 2009 The Union has elected its new General The 2009 Triennial Conference of the Secretary Joe Fleetwood and Assistant Maritime Union was held in October in General Secretary Ray Fife. Wellington. I was re-elected unopposed as National The Conference went well and I went President and Garry Parsloe was re-elected away with the sense that it had been a unopposed as National Vice President. positive and constructive meeting of our Results were sent out to members as a Union. late news item in the last edition of the We had a number of international guests Maritimes. including some who had come a long We offer our congratulations to distance. These guests represented some the successful candidates and our of the most active and respected Unions in commiserations to others who put their the world today. name forward but did not make it through National President of the marine section this time. of the RMT (UK) Steve Todd had to come It is good to see active involvement in the the furthest, along with RMT rank and file Union elections as we are a democratic delegate Tony Lloyd. union whose officials are answerable to the The All Japan Dockworkers’ Union rank and file members. (ZenKowan) was represented by Deputy On that note we also note the retirement of General Secretary Shosaku Machida. Trevor Hanson who has served for many Ray Familathe, International Vice years as General Secretary of the Maritime President of the ILWU attended from the Union and previous to that the Waterfront USA, along with Vice President of ILWU Workers’ Union. Local 13 (Long Beach, California) Ray by Phil Adams It will be hard to replace Trevor’s Benavente. National President knowledge of the industry and we There was a solid delegation of officials nother year is almost over and thank Trevor for leaving the Union and rank and file members from the MUA it has been a busy one for the in good shape, having managed our and we heard invigorating presentations Maritime Union. administration and finances and also has from MUA National Secretary Paddy AWe have seen industrial problems at the taken an active role in leading the Union in Crumlin and MUA West Australian Branch Ports of Auckland and Port Otago. the many industrial and political disputes Secretary Chris Cain. Most other ports have seen union activity we have seen in that time. There was also a well-received ITF around looking after our members’ presentation from Australian ITF co- interests whether that be individual on the ACC ordinator Matt Purcell and New Zealand ITF inspector Grahame MacLaren. job problems or wider issues. The Maritime Union is concerned about In addition to these international unionists Timaru has been the subject of a union proposed changes to ACC. The National the Conference was opened by Labour campaign around the future of regional Government is aiming at privatizing parts Party leader Phil Goff, and we heard ports and we have organized a public of ACC and is already trying to push up presentations from the CTU and EPMU. meeting on this issue, as well as meetings levies. There were some good discussions around with Fonterra, local stakeholders and the The only people privatization would remits. Minister of Transport. benefit are the Australian insurance Four life memberships were awarded at The Union has supported campaigns corporations who would move in. the Conference Dinner to Trevor Hanson, to advance workers’ rights including ACC has been attacked as being in Denis Carlisle, Terry Ryan and John Darien Fenton’s Redundancy Protection financial crisis, but this is simply not true. O’Neill. Bill and the UNITE Union’s petition for a The last time National tampered with ACC Terry is retired and active in the Veterans’ referendum to raise the minimum wage. in the 1990s it created a mess. Association. Trevor, Denis and John have We’ve also made submissions on phasing Even the Employers’ and Manufacturers’ a long history of service to the Union out methyl bromide, protecting ACC Association in Auckland is worried about and we wish them all well in their future and promoting the maritime industry as the proposed changes this time round. endeavours. an important part of the future of New The Maritime Union is backing the ACC We even got to listen to local musician Zealand’s transport industry. Futures campaign along with many other Chris Prowse and his band play live One of the good things about the Maritime unions, advocacy groups, medical and music at the bar from his recent CD Union is that it steps up to the challenge of health professionals. commemorating the 1951 waterfront helping out others, whether this is through The website is www.accfutures.org.nz donations and support many branches lockout. give to good causes in the community, It was a good conference and this bodes our advocacy for local jobs and better well for the future of our Union. conditions in the fishing industry, or our work with the ITF to sort out problems On that note I wish all members, veterans, experienced by crews on overseas vessels their families and friends of the Union a in New Zealand waters. merry Christmas and best wishes for the New Year.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 5 NEWS National officials Job losses Housing avoided at costs hit elected Port Otago workers The Maritime Union of New Zealand has reached an agree- hard ment with Port Otago Limited that will prevent job losses. The CTU is calling for a major Maritime Union National boost to investment in low-cost President Phil Adams says a housing. meeting of 150 cargo handlers Recent figures show that held on 19 November at Port despite rising average incomes, Chalmers voted in favour of a accommodation costs are proposal hammered out by the still hurting low and middle- Unions and the Company. income families. Members of the Maritime “A particular reason for this is Union of New Zealand and the rent” said CTU Economist Bill Rail and Maritime Transport Rosenberg. Union attended the meeting. “Those households with lower Mr Adams says the proposal income are more likely to rent will see no compulsory redun- than own. So, while reduced dancies amongst the work- interest rates have seen the force. costs of servicing a mortgage Joe Fleetwood: General Secretary Phil Adams: National President “We believe the workforce will fall, median expenditure on respond to the Company’s ef- rent has gone up by 9.5 per forts by continuing to ensure a cent.” high level of productivity.” “Now is just the right time to He says some outstanding significantly increase the fund- issues around the work force ing for low-cost rental housing, structure were also addressed through Housing New Zealand by the Unions. and local government.” “This is a mutually acceptable Nineteen per cent of renters, as solution for Port Otago and opposed to only six percent of its workforce and we are very homeowners, spend more than happy that after some time a 40 per cent of their household negotiated solution has been income on housing – that’s put in place.” over 100,000 households. A number of voluntary redun- With one in four households dancies are occurring at Port paying at least a quarter of Otago. their income to housing (either Ray Fife: Assistant General Secretary Garry Parsloe: National Vice President “It is a difficult economic pe- rent or mortgage) it’s still hard riod, but the Port has weath- going in the bottom half of the ered difficult times before and labour market. we are confident we will this “Since the data for this survey The Maritime Union of New Zealand has elected two new time as well.” was collected, mortgage costs national officials in their three-yearly union elections. Port Otago Limited is owned have also begun to rise again,” The new General Secretary of the Union is Joe Fleetwood of by the people of Otago through added Rosenberg. Wellington. the Otago Regional Council. “Home owners will soon be A new Assistant General Secretary of the Union has also been hurting as much as those rent- elected, Ray Fife, of Bluff. ing. The Government should The National President of the Maritime Union, Phil Adams of be looking at options such as Port Chalmers, was re-elected unopposed. shared equity and low-cost The National Vice President of the Maritime Union, Garry Parsloe loans for new houses.” of Auckland, was also re-elected unopposed. The elections took place in a postal ballot of all financial members of the Union. The new General Secretary of the Union, Joe Fleetwood, thanked members for their support and thanked all members who took part in the democratic process of the elections.

6 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz NEWS Unemployment rising

The Council of Trade Unions says more can be done to assist the unemployed. The unemployment rate, as measured by the Household Labour Force Survey (HLFS) published today, went up to 6.5 percent in the September quarter which is 150,000 people. CTU Secretary Peter Conway says now would be a good time for the Government to increase funding for skills training for those unemployed seeking a job. He says that recent unemployment benefit statistics showed a slight dip below 60,000 but this was well up on 17,700 from mid 2008. The HLFS shows that there are 150,000 unemployed, 122,100 workers wanting to Maritime Union members were among workers on the Wellington rally to support low paid public sector workers on 27 work more hours and a total of 254,000 November (photo courtesy SFWU) people who are jobless once those discour- aged from seeking work are added to the figures. Maori unemployment is at 14.2 percent, Low waged workers Pacific people at 12.3 percent and youth unemployment (15-19 years) is at 25.1 percent. reject “pay freeze” “For all the talk that the recession is over, this shows that unemployed workers are continuing to bear the brunt of a recession Thousands of protestors took to the streets Most of all, it’s backward because the cost caused by the global financial crisis.” across New Zealand on 27 November to of living is still going up too, so a wage “More needs to be done to assist these demand an end to the “wage freeze” on freeze really amounts to a wage cut for workers.” low paid public and community sector those least able to afford it.” For more information see www.union.org.nz workers. “And where will these essential public Demonstrations in 27 towns and cities services go by freezing the pay of school from Kaitaia to Invercargill coincided with support staff, cleaners and orderlies, strike action by workers hit by the pay and administrators in our schools, freeze. hospitals, social services and government Conference 2009 The strikes involved public hospital departments? If the Government doesn’t service workers and community support recognise that those workers are vital Special Report workers employed by IHC/IDEA Services then those services are only going to go New Zealand who belong to the Service backwards, to the detriment of everyone in Page 10 – 27 and Food Workers’ Union, and South New Zealand.” Island hospital administration staff who The three unions are taking the collective belong to the Public Service Association. action in support of a wide range of School support staff who belong to the workers, many of whom are paid only New Zealand Educational Institute also marginally above the statutory minimum joined the rallies in advance of their own wage. Fair Deal day of action. They include: school support staff; hospital CTU President Helen Kelly says the cleaners, food service staff and orderlies; Government has to realise that a wage South Island hospital administration staff; freeze on low paid workers is a backward and workers supporting the elderly and step. disabled. “It’s backward because low paid workers will spend all their salary which is good for the economy. It’s backward because we will never catch up with Australia if we can’t even increase the lowest incomes. It’s backward because wages elsewhere in the economy are still going up.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 7 COUNCIL OF TRADE UNIONS Unions Creating Alternatives: CTU Biennial Conference 2009 by Garry Parsloe Whilst he fielded the above questions He went on to talk about unemployment, National Vice President he had difficulty in answering them and the economy, the global crisis, the need for On 21–22 October 2009 Maritime Union mainly avoided the direct answer to the fairer redundancy payments and a better General Secretary Trevor Hanson, questions in favour of speaking around sharing of wealth. Assistant General Secretary Russell Mayn them. Phil concluded by pointing out all the dan- and I attended the Council of Trade Un- After lunch Helen Kelly addressed the gers that are contained within the National ions Biennial Conference. Conference under the heading of “Union Governments proposed changes to ACC. CTU President Helen Kelly gave the open- Change”. The next speaker was the ACTU Secretary ing address. She spoke on all the damage Four things that need to change: Jeff Lawrence. that the National Government intends to The law needs to change (to make Collec- Jeff spoke about the excellent working impose on ACC, workers rights’, employ- tive Bargaining easy to access). relationship between Australian and New ment issues, lockouts, current disputes, Unions need to change (to make member- Zealand Unions. He went on to talk about union membership, union coverage and ship easily available). “Your Rights at Work” campaign and how the important role that the CTU plays for successful the campaign had been. workers. Jeff then addressed the current industrial CTU Secretary Peter Conway then ex- situation in Australia and where new legis- panded on procedural matters, before we lation will assist in Collective Bargaining. dealt with the apologies and obituaries. Next speaker was Russell Norman from Peter then addressed the financial report. the Green Party. Russell stated that his par- He reported on our present financial situ- ty has never flinched from working class ation and went on to say that we need to issues and has always supported workers work within our budget. Peter concluded and their Unions whilst also working hard this session with a Biennial report. to protect the planet. Just prior to morning smoko we went into Prior to morning smoko there was a pres- the remit session. entation from Bill Rosenberg under the There was a discussion on vulnerable heading of “Alternative Political Economy workers especially around labour hire Presentation”. companies and contracting out After morning smoko we went back into Pay equity was discussed and agreed. workshops to address campaigning and Gender equity was discussed at length and the Alternative Economic Strategy. received by conference. After lunch on day two we had a presen- Other remits discussed were adult tation from the CTU Rununga then the education, Pacific Island workers, Union report back from the workshops before we education in schools, global economic discussed the resolutions from the Union crisis, training resource, treaty inclusion in Change paper and the 2009 conference employment law, community relationships Union leadership needs to be systemati- resolution. and privatization of prisons. cally developed (to make sure we have the At this part of the conference both Mike All of the above issues were discussed at leaders we need). Sweeney and Trevor Hanson gave their length and endorsed by conference. Unions need better resourcing (so we can farewell speeches to the conference. After morning smoko Prime Minister John do our job). The conference stood as one to honour Key addressed the conference. He spoke After afternoon smoko we had the report both Mike and Trevor for their contribu- about the end of the recession stating that back from the workshops then returned to tions to the Trade Union movement. we are now out of the recession and mov- discuss the report of the remit committee. We all sang “Solidarity Forever” and then ing forward. headed home from a most productive He went on to talk about the New Zealand Day Two conference. economy, unemployment, youth employ- Day two opened with a presentation from For more information see: ment, youth education, the 90 day bill, Labour Party leader Phil Goff. www.union.org.nz employment law and the Governments Phil spoke on all the good work that the move to implement changes to the ACC. last Labour Government achieved includ- After the Prime Ministers presentation he ing minimum wage, four weeks’ annual fielded questions from Union delegates on leave and working for families. wage levels, prison labour, job cuts, ACC and low wage workers.

8 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz ITF Contributions ITF Oceania welcome. Organising Globally Seminar

9-11 November, Sydney, Australia All members are welcome to send in by Garry Parsloe After lunch on day one we had a session National Vice President headed “White Ribbon”, the elimination of contributions to The The welcome address was delivered violence against women. by ITF Asia/Pacific Regional Secretary The speakers were Kevin Maher and Mick Maritimes. Mahendra Sharma. Doleman. He spoke on some of the campaigns that The next session was headed “Key Issues” We need photos, the ITF is involved in. including Pacific Islands and Timor Leste. The next speaker was ITF Vice President There was a good presentation and debate letters, articles, Asia/Pacific Region and National around offshore oil and gas issues. Secretary MUA Paddy Crumlin. There was a country report from Fiji, and comments and Paddy spoke on the important role of the a DVD presentation from ACTU President ITF in the Asia/Pacific Region, then went Sharan Burrow, ACTU Secretary Jeff anything else you on to talk about the need to organise in the Lawrence, NZCTU President Helen Kelly, region. MUA Secretary Paddy Crumlin and AWU can think of. He also addressed the massive Secretary Paul Howes. growth in the Oil and Gas A lot of the above was under Industry in the region. the heading “Developments Next speaker was ITF and opportunities in the If there is something General Secretary sub-region under a Rudd David Cockroft. Labor Government.” you’d like to see in David spoke about Day two opened with The Maritimes, send the make up of the a presentation on the Asia/Pacific Region global economic crisis. and the importance of Speakers spoke on how it to the Editor: having a strong voice the crisis impacts on in the region. workers and that unions The next speaker was and their members must do Mail New South Wales Premier what they can to lessen the PO Box 27004, Nathan Rees, who spoke on impact on workers’ families. industrial relations, work choices, There was a Veterans’ report from Wellington, health and safety in employment and free President of MUA Veterans Association New Zealand trade agreements. Fred Krausert. After morning smoko on day one Warren After morning smoko we had a Youth Smith of the MUA chaired the panel presentation from North Queensland Email discussion on Climate Change in the organizer Jamie Midson then MUA Sydney [email protected] Transport Industry. Branch Secretary Paul McAleer who spoke The panel was made up with David on issues affecting youth in the Oceania Cockroft (ITF), Paddy Crumlin (MUA) and Region. Fax (09) 9251125 Tony Maher (CFMEU). In the session headed “Review of All speakers addressed the dangers existing regional ITF organising projects, of climate change and the need to campaigns and initiatives”, there were do something about the associated sub sessions on ITF Seafarer Union problems especially from the Trade Union development programme projects, ITF movement. Global freight forwarding project and offshore oil and gas initiatives. So comrades, as you can see from the above we had a very productive and full on Seminar/Meeting.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 9 CONFERENCE 2009 Maritime Union of New Zealand Conference 2009

The conference gives a standing ovation to retiring General Secretary Trevor Hanson by Victor Billot He was joined by Labour MP Darien In recent months we have seen a string The Maritime Union of New Zealand held Fenton who spoke briefly on her of industrial attacks by employers on its third Triennial Conference from 27–29 Redundancy Protection Bill which would Telecom lines engineers, dairy workers, October 2009 in Wellington, New Zealand. soon come before Parliament. concrete workers, public service workers, Ten representatives of the Maritime Union She explained the importance of the Bill bus drivers, cleaners, corrections workers of Australia attended, as well as two as many workers had no redundancy and of course maritime workers. representatives each from the International protection in their employment “The Maritime Union has played its part Longshore and Warehouse Union (West agreements and at a time of rising in resisting these attacks but we have Coast USA, Canada, Alaska and Hawaii), unemployment this was very serious. to realize that this will be an ongoing the Rail and Maritime Transport Union She asked the Maritime Union to support situation. There must be a united response (United Kingdom) and ZenKowan, the the campaign and distributed some from workers and Unions.” All-Japan Dockworkers Union. campaign postcards for members to fill in He noted the good result in the Port of 29 delegates and 25 observers from the and send to the Prime Minister. Napier dispute in 2007 and thanked all Maritime Union of New Zealand attended. those who had supported this struggle, National President especially the international who had offered major support. Conference opens The National President of the Maritime Union of New Zealand Phil Adams then He talked about the lack of a transport The Conference was opened on the addressed the Conference. strategy for New Zealand and how this morning of Tuesday 27 October by the Phil welcomed delegates and observers, was causing problems in the industry. Leader of the Labour Party Hon. Phil Goff. and gave a special welcome to the overseas He reminded members that the Union He welcomed delegates and guests from Australia, USA, Japan and UK. elections were underway and all members acknowledged retiring General Secretary He said the Maritime Union was a should vote. Trevor Hanson, and thanked the Union for numerically small union that punched He congratulated the four members John their support of the Labour Party. above its weight. O’Neill, Terry Ryan, Denis Carlisle and Mr Goff spoke about the effects of the The pressure was on with the economic Trevor Hanson who were receiving life current recession on New Zealand workers crisis and the election of an anti-worker membership of the Union. and the lack of support coming from the Government. He closed by saying Unions were here to National Government. The global recession was caused by the stay. By uniting and acting collectively, He criticized the calls for a wage freeze unregulated operations of the finance workers can then face employers from a from Minister of Finance Bill English. sector under a free market capitalist position of strength. He noted that their tax cuts had benefited system. the very wealthy most while doing However those who had caused the crisis Returning Officer Report nothing for most workers. were being bailed out while workers were The Conference went over the approval The 90 day bill and the attempts to start expected to pay the cost. of various Union committees including privatizing ACC showed where the It is obvious that organized labour in New the Finance Committee, trustees of current Government was heading and Zealand and elsewhere is under attack on Union trusts, auditors, solicitors and the social services were under threat. many fronts. returning officer. 10 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz CONFERENCE 2009

Solidarity with the ILWU Borax miners in California

This was followed by a report by the He also thanked former returning officer Los Angeles and Long Beach down with National Returning Officer for the Phil Mansor for his guidance. Local 13, 63 and 94 – I just want to extend Maritime Union, John Whiting. gratitude for all of that.” Mr Whiting said that all branches USA Mr Familathe spoke on the effect of Wal- had been advised on 27 August that Mart and the shift of manufacturing to Following lunch of Tuesday, the first nominations were open for President, Vice China. international presentation came from Ray President, General Secretary and Assistant This had led to a large increase in the Familathe, International Vice President General Secretary. ILWU membership prior to the economic of the International Longshore and The nominations closed on 28 September crisis as there was a major demand for Warehouse Union (ILWU). and the following valid nominations were labour to handle the large amount of The ILWU represents workers on the West received. goods coming into the USA from China. Coast USA, Canada, Alaska and Hawaii. President: Phil Adams (elected unopposed) There had been ongoing problems leading Mr Familathe offered the best wishes of Vice President: Garry Parsloe (elected up to the economic crisis with how the US the ILWU and its national officers. unopposed) economy was being run and the resulting He acknowledged a number of MUNZ General Secretary: Joe Fleetwood and recession had hit dockworkers hard. officials who had played a major role Russell Mayn Pressure came on from employers. including past President Dave Morgan and Assistant General Secretary: Victor Billot The ILWU had supported Barack Obama former Assistant General Secretary Terry and Ray Fife and were optimistic that he would make Ryan. A national postal ballot had been prepared positive change. He also thanked Trevor Hanson, Joe for the positions of the General Secretary One of the major issues was trying to Fleetwood, Peter Harvey and Graham and Assistant General Secretary. establish national health care. McKean, who were the MUNZ delegation Ballot papers together with the candidate’s This is such a major issue in the USA the who had travelled to the West Coast USA statements had been posted to all the ILWU have to negotiate health care as a in 2002 when the ILWU was locked out members on 12 October. vital part of their collective employment by employers with support from United Those ballots had to be received back by 12 agreements. States President George Bush. noon on Friday 6 November to be counted. Mr Familathe also noted the Employee “I want to thank those Brothers for coming Mr Whiting commented that in his view Free Choice Act was a major political issue up, walking the picket line with us when Conference and the incoming National that was aimed at improving the ability of we were locked out, it was a really difficult Executive must update and amend our workers to organize. time for us, many of our members had rules for union elections. He also spoke about the struggle to never faced any type of major labour This included the need to ensure that organize workers at Blue Diamond and a disputes in their career since they had members were able to attend candidates new campaign to organize boron miners in come onto the waterfront,” he said. tours meetings. inland California. “Having people like Trevor (Hanson) who Mr Whiting noted his thanks to Edgar [continued next page] has experienced many, many difficult Spark, Ramesh Pamathanan, and Dave situations like that in his life sharing his Butler for their assistance in the election experience and lifting the morale of our process. Rank and File members in the ports of www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 11 CONFERENCE 2009

Maritime youth, from left: Napier members at Conference 2009, from left: Dave McKenna, Alan Burke, Greg Keen Bradley Clifford, Tracey Foster and Jason Simi of Wellington

ITF representatives: Wellington Seafarers Branch observers, from left: New Zealand inspector Grahame McLaren and Australian co-ordinator Matt Purcell Mike Shakespeare, Tania Kahui and Ray Cook

Former Presidents: Wellington Seafarers Alan Windsor and George Clark with Pat Harkess (MUA) former President New Zealand Seafarers Union and Maritime Union of New Zealand Dave Morgan with former President of the Waterfront Workers Union and current Secretary of Lyttelton Branch Les Wells

Photos by Alan Windsor and Victor Billot

12 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz CONFERENCE 2009

[continued from previous page] Assistant General Secretary, Mr Sam There was 97% membership of the Union Mr Familaithe introduced fellow Jennings to Japan in 1974 and 1976 amongst the 3000 workers in the Western international guest ILWU Local 13 Vice respectively, followed by our then Vice Australia offshore industry. President Ray Benavente from Long Beach, President, Mr Onohara, visit to New There were multi-billion dollar projects California. Zealand in 1978. coming on line in the offshore in West Mr Benavente spoke briefly on the Since then the two unions have continued Australia. importance of union education for young the exchange programme every four years Mr Cain said it was important to bring on members to encourage them to take and it continues until today. the youth of the Union and as part of this responsibility for their Union. “In this way, the friendship of our two process the MUA was running a youth organisations has been cemented through conference in Brisbane. UK years of strenuous efforts and comradeship “We are ready to fight and we will The next International guest speaker was among our great predecessors.” fight, believe me the Maritime Union of National Secretary of the marine division In Japan there had been a change of Australia will stand shoulder to shoulder of the RMT Steve Todd. Government in August 2009 with the with any progressive left wing militant He was accompanied by rank and file Democratic Party winning against the union to enhance wages and conditions seafarer Tony Lloyd. Liberal Democratic Party which had been and jobs for all workers around the This UK Union represents many maritime in Government for many years. world.” workers as well as rail workers (including Their right wing policies had been bad Following this presentation the Conference the London Underground) and is one of for working people especially with the broke for the day and enjoyed some the fastest growing and most militant UK replacement of permanent workers by entertainment at the bar from Chris unions with around 80,000 members. non-regular workers (casualization.) Prowse and band who played songs from Mr Todd works with seafarers and said There were a large number of “working the recently released album “Trouble on in the last few years he had worked poor” in Japan, especially since the the waterfront” that commemorated the alongside MUNZ on issues such as the economic crisis, and they were not 1951 waterfront dispute. Seafarers Bill of Rights which is known protected by labour laws. as the MLC, the Maritime Labour Social security and health care were other Day Two major issues for Japanese workers. Convention. Wednesday 28 October started with a The port industry had been hit by He explained how there had been a report from the outgoing General Secretary deregulation and use of non-regular massive reduction in numbers of merchant Trevor Hanson. workers, as a result of the previous seafarers in the UK. Following this report the Conference Government policies, but there was hope There was a problem with social dumping worked through the first session of remits. (cross border labour) and the use of there would now be a change of direction. overseas workers in the industry who Mr Machida said ZenKowan will continue Council of Trade Unions are exploited and have poor wages and to pressure shipping lines and shippers New Zealand Council of Trade Unions conditions. in order to protect livelihoods, rights and Secretary Peter Conway and President The RMT had no problem with non–UK employment of Dockers. Helen Kelly spoke to the Conference after seafarers in the industry provided they He said he had heard of similar problems lunch on Wednesday. had the same conditions as UK workers. faced by New Zealand workers and Mr Conway addressed the conference first. There was a lack of jobs and a lack of congratulated MUNZ on their stance. He said the Maritime Union always had a training in the industry both for seafarers He concluded by saying that all maritime direct approach, and in tough times “we and dockers, with an aging workforce and workers on the Pacific Rim should certainly need unions like yours.” very few young people coming through. work together, and presented a gift of a The Government was on the offensive in The UK Labour Government had not been traditional Samurai (warrior) helmet from a number of areas and it was a case of “a good for workers and would probably ZenKowan. death by a thousand cuts” with the ACC, lose the next election to the Tories health and safety, pay equity, and wage (Conservatives) who would be bad as well. West Australian Offshore Industry freezes. He also spoke about the vital role of Chris Cain, the President of the West The 90 day bill had undermined job international union solidarity in dealing Australian Branch Maritime Union of security. with shipping giant Maersk. Australia gave a forceful presentation on “If you are two months on the job in one of the offshore industry in Western Australia those small firms and you happen to point Japan and began by making some observations out that there should be a safety guard on on the state of the union movement. Deputy General Secretary All Japan that particular piece of equipment and 10 “If there is anything that you are going Dockworkers Union (Zen Kowan) Shosaku minutes later you are sacked. You’ve got to take from this conference brothers and Machida addressed the Conference and no right of appeal, nothing, gone.” sisters it is to organize workers on the was assisted by Ms Takako Uchida, his However there had been a small rise in ground no matter whether they are black translator from the Japan office of the ITF. the minimum wage which showed we white or yellow.” Mr Machida brought greetings from couldn’t assume the worst all of the time. “Our job as trade unionists is to organize Zenkowan, which was established in 1946. There had been growing employer and the challenge for us all today is that Zenkowan’s history of international militancy seen in disputes such as when we leave this conference we go activities started in 1959, when Zenkowan VisionStream/Telecom and Open Country back down to the ports, we go back on to hosted the first Asia Pacific Dockers’ Cheese. the ships and we say quite clearly how Conference in Tokyo, responding to the “We are seeing a lot of solidarity in the important it is to organize labour.” proposal made by Mr Harry Bridges, the union movement at the moment and He explained how the memorandum of then President of ILWU. that is very heartening but we are being understanding saw New Zealand and ZenKowan friendship with MUNZ has stretched and there is a risk of a damaging UK seafarers working in the Australian also had a long history; it started with rerun of the 1990s.” the visits of the then General Secretary, offshore on the same terms and conditions [continued next page] Mr E.G. (Ted) Thompson and the then as Australian seafarers and this was a result of organized labour.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 13 CONFERENCE 2009

get involved in unions that were in areas where it was difficult to join a Union. Union leadership training and using new membership systems were two other areas that needed work, as was the use of social websites like Facebook that were very popular amongst younger people. She finished by acknowledging the work of Trevor Hanson over the years and thanked the Maritime Union for its active role in promoting workers’ interests through its public statements.

Offshore Oil and Gas Alliance EPMU industrial officer Paul Tolich gave a background on the development of the Offshore Oil and Gas Alliance. MUNZ and EPMU had negotiated a memorandum of understanding and agreed on demarcations and agreed to cooperate. This was followed up by working with the Hydro Carbon Alliance between the Australian Workers’ Union and the MUA. “That was the beginning of the four unions starting to work more closely together.” A recent agreement in Taranaki had seen a 50/50 manning agreement for the four unions, EPMU, AWU, MUNZ and the MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin addresses the Conference MUA. “This achieved things that we don’t think [continued from previous page] rate for those on $150,000 or above, land of being achieved before which was we are Mr Conway spoke about the Alternative tax, capital gains tax, a green new deal going to get Australian rates paid in New Economic Strategy that he and CTU around green investment funds, taking Zealand dollars. It will be a benchmark for economist Bill Rosenberg had worked on. advantage of Kiwi Saver funds and that that industry. The first time I think it has There were three reasons for such a building up a stake of ownership of the been achieved.” strategy. New Zealand economy. The use of strategic alliances had not been Firstly, business as usual under capitalism CTU President Helen Kelly thanked around for a long time but was beginning results in inequity. An example was the Maritime Union for its level of to be used more. Hedge Fund managers in USA that earned involvement and how it always turned up The EPMU had been working with the 23 times the average wage and the ratio in to support other workers which often gave AWUNZ (Northern). Transport unions the top 500 top firms of 319 to 1 between a much needed boost. had recently met with the CTU and Pilots CEO salaries and the average worker’s Ms Kelly said the CTU was making Association to work together. salary. changes to build a stronger union Mr Tolich gave some background on some “That has become the norm. So business movement. of the disputes and events he had been as usual is resulting in huge inequities “Only 22% of workers in the country involved with MUNZ and its officials and that is not even getting into global belong to a trade union. Only 9% of especially Trevor Hanson. inequality and massive poverty in some workers in the private sector have the parts of the world.” privilege of union membership and we EPMU Secondly the global financial crisis showed know that union membership has great there needed to be better supervision, benefit to working people and we can’t be EPMU Secretary and President of the regulations, state control and ownership in happy with that sort of union coverage.” Labour Party Andrew Little gave a report. the financial sector. The CTU had identified four areas that He said how the EPMU and MUNZ had “If they are too big to fail then they are big need change to make union membership started working closely together after the enough to be state owned or regulated.” available to a lot more workers. 2005 Southwards dispute in Petone. “Thirdly, while the last Labour led The law needs to change, the way that “It was MUNZ members who actually Government swung things around unions operate needs to change, we need took action and enabled us to bring that impressively since 2000, New Zealand is to build the leadership to bring about that dispute to a head and to a satisfactory still and largely in the grip of a neo-liberal change and make those thresholds lower, resolution.” political economy.” and we also need to be smarter about how He said the role of MUNZ in many So the alternative frame work that we we use the resources we have got. disputes has been absolutely critical. came out with is based on three things: “The Union movement in New Zealand The ability to manage the flow of goods Sustainable economic development, decent should bring about the improvement in that many of the employers of our work in a good life and thirdly voice, all working people’s lives. It should be members want to put across the wharf was participation, decision in the workplace institutions that are capable of looking critical. economy. after all workers’ interests and all workers “The reality is what we are seeing today is Some of the proposals in the Alternative should be able to easily get involved and companies, particularly large corporates Economic Strategy included buying back access union membership.” are using their power, using whatever the Telecom network, compulsory super Ms Kelly discussed ways in which a new legal means and devices they have got to from employers rising to 6%, higher tax structure could be set up to help people

14 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz CONFERENCE 2009 deprive workers of their legitimate rights or their employment protections and to exert even more control over workers.” Mr Little spoke about the two major disputes that the EPMU had faced, with VisionStream/Telecom and Zeal320/Air New Zealand, which MUNZ had assisted with. He also spoke about the actions of the National Government especially with the ACC issue.

MUA General Secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia Paddy Crumlin presented the last talk for the day shortly after flying in from overseas. Mr Crumlin said that it was important to have strong unions to gain the respect of the employer. “It’s the respect that’s got the hard edge of fear. If you aren’t feared in the workplace, Maritime music: Assistant General Secretary Russell Mayn (left) and Wellington Waterfront Branch Secretary John Whiting with members of the Chris Prowse Band following their performance at the Conference, from second left – if you haven’t at the end of the day got the Tessa Rain, Eva Prowse, Chris Prowse and Bill Hickman. respect on the capacity to do things and to change things and to win things then unionism is very bleak going forward.” ITF Communications He discussed the need to have an There was a joint ITF presentation from Communications Officer Victor Billot gave organizing strategy. ITF Australia Co-ordinator Matty Purcell a short report on communications. The MUA was developing the ways it and New Zealand ITF co-ordinator He reported on how communications communicated with its members, it had a Grahame McLaren. which included publications such as the new website and had a Film unit of young Mr Purcell spoke about the close working Maritimes magazine, media relations, maritime workers. relationship the ITF in the two countries websites and communication with He spoke about unity and talked about have with each other. members had helped in a number of areas the ITF and the need for it to be active and Some key campaigns he spoke about including the 2007 Port of Napier dispute. campaigning. included the Leonhardt and Blumberg Other areas of work included submissions The support of dockworkers was central campaign and the ANL campaign which to Government, political campaigns, to the ITF as they supported it through the had both been successful. reports and speech writing. inspectors on vessels and also financially. There were changes expected to the Flag He said it was urgent to start developing There were struggles around the world of Convenience campaign with the focus and training younger members. ranging from the EPMU dispute to on a fair and equitable system for seafarers the Boron miners with the ILWU to worldwide rather than national flags. Corrections the assassination of Pedro Zamora in “We have created a system whereby with President of the Corrections Association Guatemala where the ITF had worked. the IBF, International Bargaining Forum Bevan Hanlon was asked to say a few and the TCC agreements, we have been words as he was in attendance. Conference dinner able to lift the bar if you like, lift the He spoke about the history of CANZ and standards for seafarers internationally.” Delegates and union guests enjoyed how it had a good relationship with the The ITF had to ensure that dockers were a conference dinner on the evening of Maritime Union. organized. Wednesday 28 October at the Brentwood He spoke on some issues including Work was going into organizing unions Hotel. double bunking with prisoners and prison from labour supply countries that didn’t Four life memberships were awarded to privatization, which he described as a have follow up services for their members. long serving officials and members Trevor method of attacking wages and conditions Grahame MacLaren outlined the plan for Hanson, Terry Ryan, John O’Neill and of the workforce around the world. Denis Carlisle. ITF training for MUNZ members. Tributes were made to retiring MUA The ITF had been active in New Zealand in Superannuation officials Jimmy Tannock and Rick Newlyn areas such as ITF agreements, repatriations for their great contribution over the years of overseas seafarers and dismissal, back The final presentation from the day to MUNZ. pay and medical issues. was from the Waterfront Industry Thanks to the Wellington Seafarers’ Branch From the 23 - 26 of June in Istanbul Turkey Superannuation Funds (WISF) and the who organized the evenings proceedings the 140 or so ITF inspectors from all over Seafarers Retirement Fund (SRF). including the popular band and karaoke the globe, along with the ITF Secretariat WISF Chairman David Young, WISF that continued on into the small hours. and guest speakers gathered for the 2009 Director Paul Martin and SRF Chairman Worldwide ITF Inspectors Seminar. David Scott reported on the progress of the Thursday 29 October The main focus in Istanbul was the new funds and answered questions from the Maritime Labour Convention. floor. The final day of the Conference had “The aim of the seminar was for us as several remit sessions and included a Inspectors to try and understand how this Following this final presentation, some conference photo which is reproduced in comprehensive new convention can be last minute business was dealt with this edition of the Maritimes. applied to improve seafarers’ lives.” and President Phil Adams declared the Conference in recess until 2012.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 15 CONFERENCE 2009

International guests: Maritime Union of New Zealand National President Phil Adams (centre) with All Japan Dockworkers Union Deputy General Secretary Shosaku Machida (left) and translator Takako Uchida of the ITF Japanese Council of Transport Workers’ Unions (right)

International guests: from left, Maritime Union of Australia WA Branch Organizer Mick Canning, Maritime Union of Australia WA Branch Secretary Chris Cain and Maritime Union of New Zealand Wellington Branch Secretary (now General Secretary) Joe Fleetwood

16 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz CONFERENCE 2009

International guests: from left, RMT (UK) National Secretary (Marine Division) Steve Todd, rank and file RMT seafarer Tony Lloyd, ILWU Local 13 Vice President Ray Benavente, and ILWU International Vice President Ray Familathe

International guests: MUA representatives from left, Sydney Branch Assistant General Secretary Joe Deakin, Newcastle Branch Deputy General Secretary Len Covell, Steve Paras (Newcastle Branch) and Kevin Fennessey (Melbourne Branch) www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 17 CONFERENCE 2009 Trevor Hanson valedictory speech Maritime Union of New Zealand 2009 Conference

My predecessor President of the Timaru restructuring, and the increased Branch, Lloyd Jenkin called me aside when casualisation across all ports. I got elected and said to me there are three I don’t have to spell out the damage of this rules you need to learn – they are never period. The growth of company culture, talk to an employer without a witness, the effects of the Employment Contracts always take written notes, and never drink Act, and the growth of yellow unions, all alcohol during work hours. took their toll. Those rules are just as valid today as they This all happened at a time of decline in were then. I admit that although I stuck to conventional cargoes and increasing use of the rules at work, I have always enjoyed a containers, and larger container vessels. few after work. Seafarers were under attack with the loss of the corner system and section 198 of Recession the Maritime Transport Act (1994) which allowed overseas ships including Flag of The current recession is undoubtedly Convenience vessels to carry domestic the worst downturn since the 1930s. It is cargo on the New Zealand coast. a recession that definitely had all of the Followed by the loss of the Trans Tasman ingredients to cause world wide labour vessels, this left tankers, cement boats, struggles. Pacifica and Inter Island Ferries as the only Despite the premature celebrations that it permanent employment available. By Trevor Hanson has all just sailed past us, we can be sure The remainder of New Zealand that the roll on effects and instability could I would like to take this opportunity to seafarers were then dependent on casual continue for years to come. welcome all guests and members to our employment. It is the fourth cycle since the mid 1960s 2009 Triennial Conference of the Maritime Seafarers have had to roll with the when the bandages have been applied to Union of New Zealand. punches. Over the last few years, an keep the system going. As you are aware this is my last agreement with the MUA has provided The developed world, including New conference, and in nine days time I will good employment opportunities in the Zealand has experienced the highs and have completed 50 years of working life. Australian offshore, but there is no long lows of these cycles. Poorer nations have For the past 37 years I have been an active term job security for these workers. fared worse, with genocide, terrorism, war, unionist. These years have been kind to Fishermen have been attempting to crime and exploitation blighting the lives me, my time as a union official has been get into the industry without correct of millions if not billions. very rich in human experience and I have qualifications. met an amazing range of personalities. Few would have predicted the reverse of history, with many of the hard won gains The job has always been about the rights of Yellow Unions workers, and wrongs to workers, and I can of working people around the world being honestly say that every day I have learned reversed and obliterated in a few short The most serious issue we face is the something new about human nature. years. formation of company unions by As part of the experience I learnt the trade Many of the words we now hear aggressive employers. of how to deal with and defy employers, came from this era – the demands for This is done entirely for the purpose of or any one else who has attacked our competition, privatization, casualization, undermining genuine unions. Under Union, or kindred workers. flexibility, all to produce more profits for current legislation there is no serious At age 27 I joined the Timaru Branch of employers. examination of company unions Waterfront Workers’ Union as a rank and connection with management. file worker where I was introduced to Globalization Anti-union employers use a small quantity of anti unionists as the core of their active unionism. The shipping industry was the first workforce and rely on a continual turnover My role as an official at the port of Timaru globalized industry and first saw practices of semi-casual labour. came through a branch election when that would soon become common, with the The first experience was with a group nominations for our Branch Executive removal of the developed world’s crews of ex-members from Tauranga who had were about to close. and replaced with cheap labour beginning taken redundancy in 1989 and were then There were not enough candidates some 50 years ago and promoted under the employed by ISO and moved in on work standing, and the gang I was working in Flag of Convenience system. in Gisborne. decided that one of us should stand. The first direct attack on New Zealand Years of conflict took place as ISO They picked me and said you won’t go waterfront workers was October 1989 attempted to operate as a suitcase over the line but at least we’ll have a vote. when the Waterfront Industry Commission stevedore, turning up in different ports They were wrong –I was elected – and was finished. This saw 1700 jobs go from with a short term casual labour force they unwittingly set me on a rollercoaster the industry. overseen by a small group of permanents ride of highs and lows for the next 33 years Many workers ended up working for under direct control of their boss. as a union official. employers they didn’t want to work for, This happened in Gisborne, Tauranga, I can say the first part of this journey was but if they wanted a job they had little Napier and all other North island ports, mostly enjoyable and fulfilling, as the choice. followed up by attacks in the South Island regulated society we lived in was good for Many then lost their jobs through where ISO operated under the new name workers, families and unions. liquidations, redundancies and of Mainland. 18 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz CONFERENCE 2009

Bluff, Port Chalmers, Timaru, Nelson, and After coming to power, we were told Now National is pushing heavy trucking Lyttelton all saw action as we defended by the Government the cabotage policy as the main transport mode and is pouring unionized, secure local jobs. had been changed and this damaged the millions into roading. The struggle had some tragic results. relationship and trust with our seafaring We spent considerable time making a Lyttelton Port Company contracted out members. submission against this rule change, as did its coal loading operation to a West Coast Over the years waterfront branches many other credible NZ organisations. contractor who employed non-union gradually disaffiliated from Labour All realised the damage this rule change labour. Party, to the stage where only 3 branches will bring to all New Zealanders and our Christine Clarke died on 31 December remained affiliates. expectation is it will be rubber stamped 1999 from injuries sustained on the picket Our National Executive recently made a and carried out despite widespread line at Lyttelton two days earlier when unanimous decision to reaffiliate with the opposition. she was run over by a motorist in a 4WD Labour Party mainly because they are the So, although we face continual pressures, vehicle who objected to the picket line. largest opposition group and we recognise I believe we have responded in the correct Christine was a Lyttelton local and simply the dangers a National Government carries way on most occasions, though I believe a supporter of the unions who was there for all workers. that a more national focus to our Union to lend a hand, for which she paid the If the Maritime Union is to have any effect and one Union inside the wharf gates ultimate price. The man who committed on Labour we need to have an active would have led to better results. this crime was given soft treatment by the involvement at the local level. courts which shows us how the system is Our affiliation with Labour cannot be A fighting union stacked against workers. based on sentimental reasons and must be Our Union has fought hard battles. That event is something that will not be focussed on what they can deliver for us, The maritime strikes of 1890 and 1913 forgotten and has left some deep scars. not the other way around. and the waterfront lockout of 1951 tested The last instalment in the battle was the Unless there is a genuine commitment to maritime workers to the limits but even 2006 Napier dispute where, with the reconnect to the concerns and issues of after setbacks we have always regrouped. assistance of the International Transport working class New Zealanders, which I The attacks of recent years have been more Federation and the MUA in particular we believe is happening to a degree, then the fragmented in nature but they have been had a major working class victory. result will not be a happy one. ongoing attacks. I believe this dispute showed we have the The National Government is approaching With the effects of the global recession, and ability as a Union to run a successful and things in a more gradual and calculated the domestic situation, there will be some well-organized campaign. way in order not to create the type of mass stormy waters to navigate in the months But the underlying problem remains. resistance that grew in the 1990s. and years ahead. Under current legislation, unions have In recent months we’ve seen a whole We face an era where the great progress to be operated at arm’s length from range of major industrial disputes with of the working class throughout the employers. But it is impossible to prove employers on the offensive, against twentieth century for secure jobs and a just that employers are calling the shots and it a background of recession and a pro- society has been halted and even reversed is simply a legal fiction. employer Government. by an aggressive capitalist elite and their Port companies are aware of the situation These have included a protracted struggle unending search for profits extracted from and in some cases are more than happy to at the Ports of Auckland and the current the labour of working people. form temporary alliances with anti-union situation at the Port of Otago. However as history has shown, the stevedores to destroy unionism in their In addition there have been a number of struggle is an ongoing one and the tide port with a long term goal to create Ports major industrial disputes, including bus sometimes runs with us and sometimes of Convenience. workers and concrete workers (NDU), runs against us. The danger is always the parochial and Open Country Cheese (Dairy Workers), Those who came before us sacrificed much individual outlook that puts my job, my cleaners (Service Food Workers Union) to achieve many of the conditions we company, my port first and that fails to Telecom lines engineers who are members enjoy today. recognize as a national union, part of a of the EPMU contracted out, and know the The challenges for the Union ahead will global transport chain, we are only as issue of private prisons double berthing be severe but I believe if we maintain our strong as our weakest link. and confinement in containers. traditions of militant unionism, socialist During the previous Labour Government principles and solidarity, we will be well we lobbied, made submissions, appeared New Zealand Ports equipped to face those challenges. before select committees, all on the issue of The other issue which faces us is the I will not be part of those decisions but I these company unions. rationalization of New Zealand ports. will watch the progress of the Maritime We understood the legislation was The Union has actively supported a Union with interest and I wish you all well based on ILO Conventions. What we did planned future for New Zealand ports, in your endeavours. request was that a real test be carried out not the chaotic, inefficient and parochial by the Registrar of Unions on any new current system which plays into no one’s Trevor Hanson retired as General Secretary application to register a union. hands except global operators. of the Maritime Union of New Zealand in As far as I am aware we are the only union We’d like to see a level of public November 2009. The above is an abridged who has ever challenged the registrar over ownership and national co-ordination to version of his speech to the Conference. a registration. This stalled the application get ports working together, a concept we but it eventually went through. call KiwiPort. Prior to Labour being elected in 1999, Our goal was to move to a system of hub seafarers were given open public promises ports working in with smaller feeder ports of a return to cabotage when Labour and using coastal shipping to transport regained power. This never happened. between them. This solution has support in the industry.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 19 CONFERENCE 2009 Conference 2009 Remits

One of the main purposes of the Triennial fee was under the management of the Conference is to set Maritime Union policy, Branch/Local until agreement was reached and make the decisions about how the on the future of that particular asset. “One of the Union operates and what it does. Recommended: Endorse for discussion Moved: George Clark because the original main purposes The Maritime Union is a democratic mover Mike Norris is an observer organization where all members can have Seconded: Lee Rogers of the Triennial an influence and have a say at branch level. Carried Branches bring remits to the Conference, Bill Connolly asked his vote be recorded against which are then debated and voted on. Conference is Remit 2 If the remits are passed then the Union will (Wellington Seafarers Branch) to set Maritime follow through and take action on them. The Wellington Seafarers Branch supports the actions of our National Executive to move from At the 2009 Conference, 35 remits were the structure we are currently administrated Union policy, received. by, to a regional structure for Munz. (Moved The remits are listed below under their at Stopwork Meeting by A. Windsor, seconded and make the category, and note what branch the remit D. McIsaac, Carried 57 for none against.) came from. At the bottom of each remit, Recommended: Endorse for discussion decisions about information includes the recommenda- Moved: Joe Fleetwood tion of the Remit Committee on the remit, Seconded: Mike Shakespeare how the Union the delegate who moved the remit and the Carried delegate who seconded it, and whether it Remit 3 was carried or lost. operates and (Nelson Branch) The Nelson Branch Support the actions of our National Executive to move from the what it does” Regionalization, union structure and rules, structure we are currently administered fees by to a regional structure for MUNZ. Recommendation: Coupled with Remit 2 Remit 1 Recommended: Endorsed for discussion (Lyttleton Local 43) coupled with Remit 2 Existing Branch/Local assets in preparation for Regionalisation Remit 4 That the Triennial Conference of MUNZ (Wellington Seafarers Branch) discusses an alternative amendment to the The Wellington Seafarers Branch moves template for Regionalization that would take that if Regionalisation falls over, at or into account particular assets that have been before National Conference, we go straight accumulated by Branches/ Locals through to a National Central Funded Union for levies and additional fee structures to create the betterment and future for all members unique facilities to cater for their membership. of the Maritime Union of New Zealand. This notes that there has been considerable (Moved at Stopwork Meeting by M. time and resources committed to the Catcahapolie, seconded by M. MacDonnell. establishment of a future structure that Carried 57 for none against.) would benefit all Maritime Union members Recommended: Couple with Remit 5. and in time become the basis for a stronger Endorsed for discussion well resourced regional structure. Moved: Glen Wylie The intent of the motion is to stimulate debate Seconded: Mike Clark where by consensus we may alleviate some Carried of the concerns that members within Local 43 have in regards to the future security of Remit 5 the Holiday Homes owned by Local 43. (Nelson Branch) Further this notes that by addressing any The Nelson Branch moves that if regionalisation impediments and treating these particular assets falls over, at or before National Conference we in context with how they were established it go straight to a national central funded union would assist in establishing that such assets for the betterment and future for all members were treated in a fair and equitable fashion of the Maritime Union of New Zealand. consistent with all Branches/ Locals. Recommended: Couple with Remit 4. Aims Endorsed for discussion. 1. The aim if successful is simply to remove any barriers that may stall the Remit 6 gains that are achievable under the (Bluff Branch) draft proposal for Regionalization. That a comprehensive review of the union rules 2. If passed this resolution would not preclude to be undertaken to reflect current and future in the future any asset that has been given requirements and to remove obsolete provisions. a particular status from being managed by Recommended: Couple with Remit 7 a regional structure. This would provide and Endorsed for discussion the Branch/local with a reassurance that in Moved by: Ray Fife going into a reorganised structure, control Seconded: Les Wells over an asset that was secured by a levy or Carried additional fee outside of the regular Union

20 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz CONFERENCE 2009

Remit 7 (Moved at stonework meeting by R. Cook, Remit 14 (Auckland Seafarers/Local 13) seconded by G. Rogers, carried 57 none against.) (Bluff) Rule Review Moved by: Glenn Wylie That MUNZ work jointly through education Given that two Triennial conferences have Seconded: Joe Fleetwood and political groups such as the CTU taken place since the formation of the Carried to introduce and encourage legislation Maritime Union of New Zealand and that requiring labour education in history and much has been learned during this time Remit 10 social studies for all schools at all levels. of the varied needs and governance issues (Nelson) That MUNZ assist in the development of required within our Industry and our Union. Regardless of what ever structure the Maritime these educational programs, including Therefore move that the General Union of New Zealand is governed by there the development of educational Secretary be charged with undertaking should be one union fee paid by all, based materials and resources in order to a full and comprehensive review of on a percentage of gross earnings for this to assure quality labour education. the rules of the National Union. happen there should not be a cut-off date Recommendation: Endorsed This notes that there are many rules but a time frame set as to bring every one Moved by: Ray Fife currently existing that are no longer on to an even keel (eg) 3 year period. Seconded: Les Wells practical or in any way reflect the need of Recommendation: Couple with Remit 9 Carried the Union at this particular point in time. Further that any review takes into Remit 11 Remit 15 consideration the need for Branch rules to (Bluff) (Port Chalmers Dunedin) be included in order that any future issues That a National Official where practical That the incoming National Executive of raised at a local or National level can be dealt attend union meetings at Branch level on MUNZ examine the exact costs of employing with in a timely and efficient manner. a regular basis, so that the membership a training officer, with the additional task Further that the mover fully appreciates hear first hand on matters that the union is of also identifying and recording health the complexities involved in such a review dealing with nationally and internationally, and safety problems at all ports, to be and recommends that this be undertaken in thereby hopefully expanding on the presented to all appropriate authorities. conjunction with all the National Officials. participation levels at union meetings. The actions taken by employers and Recommended: Couple with Remit 7 Moved by: Ray Fife Government agencies on receipt of such reports Auckland Seafarers/Local 13 Seconded: Les Wells to be recorded and kept for future reference Moved by: Garry Parsloe Carried in cases of accidents and health issues. Seconded: Denis Carlisle The reason for this remit is the complete Carried Remits On Education And Training avoidance of the issues by Maritime New Zealand, with no voice for workers. Remit 8 Recommendation: Endorsed (Auckland Seafarers/Local 13) Remit 12 Moved by: Graeme Wall Branch/ Local Restructuring/ Amalgamations (Auckland Seafarers/Local 13) Seconded: Les Wells Given the debate that has already taken place That following the last Triennial conference the Carried around Branch regionalization/amalgamations meeting acknowledges the success in organising and the resolution that was passed at the special and implementing the Veterans’ Association. Remits On Superannuation national executive meeting held on the 31st This notes that the numbers that are August and the 1st September 2009, where the now registered are significant and national executive endorsed the draft objectives have exceeded all expectations. Remit 16 and principles and that the national union This however highlights a possible (Wellington Seafarers Branch) would support and encourage Branches/Locals deficiency in the resources that are being The Wellington Seafarers Branch wants the to organise or amalgamate on a regional basis. allocated to the youth within our Union. Triennial Conference to address combining both This motion recommends that consideration To assist in promoting up and coming SRF / WISF Superannuation schemes together; be given to any Branches/Locals that agree on delegates and in line with educational this would create an economy of scale which a plan to amalgamate/ regionalise and makes options available through the ITF and sister could encompass the best of both schemes to allowance so that any amalgamated/ regional Unions who have developed extensive Youth meet members’ requirements in today’s climate. structure is in no way disadvantaged by way education and development programmes. (Moved at stonework meeting by A. Windsor, of representation at a National level if an That this Triennial conference endorses seconded I. Iken, carried 57 for none against.) amalgamated/ regional structure is adopted. future participation from the rank and Recommendation: Endorsed Couple with Remit 17 The aim is to maintain a balance between file membership who represent the youth Moved by: Joe Fleetwood Branch/Local representation and regional within the Maritime Union of New Zealand. Seconded: Eddie Cook representation by allowing any amalgamated The National Executive shall endeavour Carried With Remit 17 Branch/ Local or regional structure to maintain to provide resources for representatives to the same number of representatives and voting attend selected National Executive Meetings Remit 17 rights as it would have been provided for and approved Youth conferences. (Nelson Branch) under the existing Branch/Local structure. Further notes that any Branch/Local wishing to The Nelson Branch wants the Triennial This notes that it is intended by the nominate representatives supply the National Conference to address combining both SRF/ mover that any representation or voting Executive with relevant documentation WISF Superannuation schemes together. This rights would be reviewable if at a future supporting nominations in order to aid with would create an economy of scale which could stage MUNZ agreed to restructure. any selection process that may be necessary. encompass the best of both schemes to meet Further in order for this if agreed to be Moved: Denis Carlisle members’ requirements in today’s climate. implemented there will have to be amendments Seconded: Carl Findlay Recommendation: Endorsed Coupled with Remit 16 to the National rules undertaken. Carried With Remit 13 Moved by: Joe Fleetwood Moved by: Garry Parsloe Seconded: Eddie Cook Seconded: Denis Carlisle Remit 13 Carried With Remit 16 Carried (Wellington Seafarers/Nelson) Union training for our youth. (Moved at Remit 9 stopwork meeting by A. Windsor, seconded (Wellington Seafarers) by D. McIsaac, carried 57 for none against.) Regardless of what ever structure the Maritime Recommendation: Coupled with Remit 12 Union of New Zealand is governed by, there Moved by: Joe Fleetwood should be one union one fee paid by all, based Seconded: Mike Clark on a percentage of gross earnings. For this to Carried With Remit 12 happen, there should not be a cut-off date, but a time frame set as to bring everyone on to an even keel (eg) 3 year period.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 21 CONFERENCE 2009

Remit 18 Remit 22 Remit 26 (Auckland Seafarers/Local 13) (Wellington Seafarers Branch) (Auckland Seafarers/Local 13) That the MUNZ Triennial conference considers That Life Membership be awarded to Mike Taking into account the current political and debates the merits of giving its members, Williams at the October 2009 Triennial climate where a right wing National that are part of the Waterfront Industry Conference of the Maritime Union of New Government has been elected into power Superannuation Fund, a one off entitlement Zealand. (Moved at stopwork meeting by and the decision taken that MUNZ would to access up to, but not more than 50% of M. Masters, seconded B. Pierce, Carried.) affiliate to the New Zealand Labour Party. their superannuation balance after ten years Recommendation: Endorsed This recommends that suitable thought or more continuous contributions to the Carried be given to the political system currently Waterfront Industry Superannuation Fund. It was recorded that this Remit had to operating in New Zealand, MMP. Recommendation: Endorsed be approved by National Council. Clearly a suitable coalition partner or partners Moved by: Carl Findlay for Labour must be established if the National Seconded: Dein Ferris Remits On International And ITF Party is to be defeated in the next election. Carried That MUNZ actively promotes any political party that it believes has the Remit 23 credentials to support the principles MUNZ Remit 19 (Bluff) subscribes to and has the ability to become (Veterans Association) That the ITF Flag of Convenience and a reliable left wing coalition partner to The Veterans’ association calls on this Port of Convenience campaigns to be a successful Labour Government. Triennial Conference to note and recognise supported by the membership and that Further that the commitment to organise both at the good work of the Trustees’ in guiding MUNZ provide information/education the workplace and in the political arena go hand the fund through the world wide recession to the membership on the campaigns. in hand and one cannot be successful without in protecting our members’ interests. Recommendation: Endorsed both of these principles as founding beliefs. We further recognise that the percentage Moved by: Les Wells Recommendation: Endorsed of the deferred beneficiaries in the fund Seconded: Eddie Cook Moved by: Alec Tairua keep increasing as members retire. Carried Seconded: Carl Findlay We are also well aware that most enquiries Carried regarding movements and concerns Remits On Veterans originate from veteran members and Remit 27 very often veterans’ officials are unable Remit 24 (Auckland Seafarers/Local 13) to assist with simple answers. (Veterans Association) That this Triennial Council after Therefore we request this MUNZ Triennial With the veterans’ association reaching hearing the ongoing difficulties some meeting to have the MUNZ Trustees persuade 350 members, with still plenty of room for Locals are experiencing in organising the employer trustees to have a veteran’s official growth potential, the old chestnut of being monthly stopwork meetings under attend trustee meetings in an observer capacity. adequately funded to ensure the membership the current laws and regulations. The veterans’ association believes that in is properly serviced, raises its head. Notes the need for clear and precise this way all members including deferred There are so many areas of expansion changes to the Employment Relations beneficiaries would be adequately needed, such as welfare, health, Political Act to reflect the basic right of a Union to represented with veterans’ administration lobbying, dispute logistics, along with organise and meet on a regular basis where lightening the workload of MUNZ other areas in which we can be of every member of the Union has the right officials in regard to veteran enquiries. assistance to MUNZ and its branches. to join the debate and cast their vote. Recommendation: Cannot proceed as It is the intention of the veterans to introduce Under current legislation any total remit not covered by rules, endorse a small fee to cover postage and incidentals. withdrawal of labour whilst in contract and open for discussion or reject However this will not cover the ability to is considered an illegal stoppage and Moved by: Les Wells look after our most vulnerable members, any Union which undertakes such a Seconded: Bill Connolly or support MUNZ to the extent that we stoppage is liable for damages. Carried would like with industrial disputes. Political parties must be taken to task We therefore call on this MUNZ Triennial and recognise that if they require the It was noted at the Conference that Conference to consider requesting each support of Unions and the organisational there was no Remit 20 (typing error). MUNZ branch or local to make an annual resources Unions bring to the party donation to the veterans’ association of whilst in opposition and during election Remits on recognition of service $1.50 per branch member equivalent. campaigns then such basic working rights Recommendation: Cannot proceed as remit not in cannot be denied under legislation. rules. Endorse as subject for discussion or reject Further MUNZ commits to lobby both the New Remit 21 Zealand Council of Trade Unions and the New (Auckland Seafarers/Local 13) Political Zealand Labour Party to seek agreement that if Vote Of Thanks to MUA returned to power in the next General Election That this Triennial council formally the Labour Party will seek to amend current acknowledges the impending retirement Remit 25 legislation relating to illegal strikes in order of comrades Jim Tannock and Rick (Bluff) that Unions and their members can function Newlyn from their positions as officers That MUNZ continue efforts at all going into the future. This notes that if the right of the Maritime Union of Australia. levels of the union to involve members to withdraw labour existed in an unfettered Special note be given to the time and in union political action at community, manner many of the current anti worker considerable expertise that both of these provincial and national levels. attacks and shameful employment behaviour officials have placed at the disposal of MUNZ strongly encourages members to by Companies would be a thing of the past. the Maritime Union of New Zealand get involved in the union, to be educated Recommendation: Endorsed under the Trans Tasman Federation. and informed about union business and Moved by: Denis Carlisle Further notes that this council endorses a vote supporting others in their struggles. Seconded: Russell Mayn of thanks to Jim Tannock and Rick Newlyn and Recommendation: Endorsed Carried wishes them a long and prosperous retirement. Moved by: Ray Fife Recommendation: Endorsed Seconded: Ian Quarrell Remit 28 Moved by: John O’Neill Carried (Port Chalmers Dunedin) Seconded: Bill Connolly That the incoming National Executive of MUNZ Carried makes every effort to get changes made to current legislation to ensure that the Registrar of Industrial Unions tests all applications for registration of a Union, and seeks proof that any application is genuine and no employer has had any part in the application.

22 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz CONFERENCE 2009

Furthermore the CTU must be part of this process. Furthermore that this policy is adopted by the NZ Labour Party. Recommendation: Endorsed Moved: Victor Billot Seconded: Ian Quarrell Carried

Remit 29 (Port Chalmers Dunedin) That the incoming National Executive of MUNZ advocate, promote and educate on an ongoing basis for an integrated rail road coastal shipping transport system. The effect of the National Government policy favouring heavy trucking and ignoring coastal shipping is a social, economic and environmental travesty. Furthermore that this policy is adopted by the NZ Labour Party. Recommendation: Endorsed Moved: Victor Billot Seconded: Ian Quarrell Carried

Remits on Workplace, Industrial and Solidarity Napier delegate Alan Burke speaks from the floor Remit 30 (Bluff) That MUNZ re-affirm union policy around the important issue of working hours. Recognising that working hours are determined by collective agreements, union policy must This initiative must include the development of Late Remit remain to strive to achieve the reduction of a recruitment campaign, but also recognising working hours particularly with the issue of the funding requirements for such a campaign. Remit 35 fatigue due to working excessive hours. Recommendation: Endorsed (Wellington Seafarers) Moved by: Ray Fife Recommendation: Endorsed The Wellington Branch Seafarers Seconded: Ian Quarrell Moved by: Ray Fife because of current and previous urgent Carried Seconded: Ian Quarrell problems request the indulgence of Carried Conference to accept a late remit. Remit 34 This is a late Remit to MUNZ National (Port Chalmers Dunedin) Remit 31 Conference from the Wellington Branch (Bluff) That the Maritime Union of New Zealand Seafarers Stop Work meeting. That conference re-affirms that all continues its support for other Unions All clearances from the Maritime Union lashing/unlashing of cargo should under attack particularly in the present of New Zealand must be signed by the be performed by dockers. political and industrial climate. General Secretary then co-signed by the Recommendation: Endorsed with Further that the National Executive examine branch official before being provided to change of wording to read: the possibility of setting up a dollar a week the person requesting such clearance. The conference re-affirms that all contribution from all financial members to The purpose of this resolution is to lashing/unlashing of cargo shall be assist other workers and Unions in dispute preserve our good relationship with performed by MUNZ members. whilst National is in power and to be reviewed other International Unions. Moved by: Ray Fife at the determination of the next Government. Recommendation: Endorsed with Seconded: Alan Burke Explanation: Our history is one of proudly change of wording to read: Carried assisting both financially and physically The Wellington Branch Seafarers workers and Unions in their time of need, because of current and previous urgent Remit 32 under the realisation that every victory is problems request the indulgence of (Bluff) one for all NZ workers, we are also very Conference to accept a late remit. That a template be developed to encompass the conscious of the need to preserve our This is a late Remit to MUNZ National core clauses in branches collective agreements, own assets, for our own future fights. Conference from the Wellington Branch Recommendation: Endorsed such as long service leave, sick leave and Seafarers Stop Work meeting. Moved by: Victor Billot annual leave, thereby when branches go into All clearances from the Maritime Union of Seconded: Ian Quarrell negotiations they are able to strive for the New Zealand must be signed by the General Carried best conditions from other agreements. Secretary then co-signed by the branch official Recommendation: Endorsed and the Branch Secretary before being provided Resolved that: Moved by: Les Wells to the person requesting such clearance. Seconded: Ray Fife In this Third Triennial Conference of MUNZ The purpose of this resolution is to Carried having just passed Remit 34 endorse the preserve our good relationship with actions of National Officials in granting $5,000 other International Unions. Remit 33 to the EPMU during their recent struggles. Moved by: Joe Fleetwood (Bluff) Moved by: Ray Fife Seconded: Glen Wylie That this conference recognises the importance Seconded: Terry Ryan Carried of a growth strategy across all sections of our Carried industry as a path forward for the next 3 years. Included in this strategy should be a campaign to organise the unorganised in our non- traditional areas without compromising the core fundamentals of who this union represents.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 23 Maritime Union of New Zealand Triennial Conference, 29 October 2009, Wellington, New Zealand

Front row, from left: Taffy Hicks, Stuart Crawford, Pat Harkness, Ray Fife, Mike Shakespeare, Dave McKenna, Paul Napier, Ray Cook, Rachel Goddard, Greg Keen, Ian Quarrell, Glenn Wyllie, Bill Lewis, Jason Simi Second row: Tony Lloyd, Ray Benavente, Ray Familathe, Russell Mayn, Phil Adams, Trevor Hanson, Garry Parsloe, Shosaku Machida, Takako Uchida, Matt Purcell, Rick Newlyn, Denis Carlisle, Marion Leslie, George Clark, Dawn Clark Third row: John Shaw, Steve Todd, Henry Nee Nee, Grant Williams, Craig Harrison, Waine Wolfe, Steve Thompson, Eddie Cook, Alec Tairua, Tania Kahui, Gordon Kopu, Mike Clark, Grahame MacLaren, Kevin Fennessey, Alan Burke, Ramesh Pathmanathan, John Whiting, Ross Tangney, Dein Ferris Fourth row: Craig Marsh, Bradley Clifford, John O’Neill, Brian Callaghan, Graeme Wall, Alan Windsor, Dave Schleibs, Wayne Hanson, Steve Paras, Peter Harvey, Chris Cain, Tony Mowbray, Victor Billot, Carl Findlay, Wayne Davies, Daniel Staley, Tony Townsend, Glen Rogers, Joe Fleetwood Back row: Barry Millington, George McIntosh, Bill Connelly, Mick Canning, Les Wells, Michael Norris, Clinton Norris, Terry Ryan, Len Covell, Dave Morgan, (right of screen) Steve Murray, Tracy Foster, Mark Larkin

24 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz Maritime Union of New Zealand Triennial Conference, 29 October 2009, Wellington, New Zealand

Front row, from left: Taffy Hicks, Stuart Crawford, Pat Harkness, Ray Fife, Mike Shakespeare, Dave McKenna, Paul Napier, Ray Cook, Rachel Goddard, Greg Keen, Ian Quarrell, Glenn Wyllie, Bill Lewis, Jason Simi Second row: Tony Lloyd, Ray Benavente, Ray Familathe, Russell Mayn, Phil Adams, Trevor Hanson, Garry Parsloe, Shosaku Machida, Takako Uchida, Matt Purcell, Rick Newlyn, Denis Carlisle, Marion Leslie, George Clark, Dawn Clark Third row: John Shaw, Steve Todd, Henry Nee Nee, Grant Williams, Craig Harrison, Waine Wolfe, Steve Thompson, Eddie Cook, Alec Tairua, Tania Kahui, Gordon Kopu, Mike Clark, Grahame MacLaren, Kevin Fennessey, Alan Burke, Ramesh Pathmanathan, John Whiting, Ross Tangney, Dein Ferris Fourth row: Craig Marsh, Bradley Clifford, John O’Neill, Brian Callaghan, Graeme Wall, Alan Windsor, Dave Schleibs, Wayne Hanson, Steve Paras, Peter Harvey, Chris Cain, Tony Mowbray, Victor Billot, Carl Findlay, Wayne Davies, Daniel Staley, Tony Townsend, Glen Rogers, Joe Fleetwood Back row: Barry Millington, George McIntosh, Bill Connelly, Mick Canning, Les Wells, Michael Norris, Clinton Norris, Terry Ryan, Len Covell, Dave Morgan, (right of screen) Steve Murray, Tracy Foster, Mark Larkin

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 25 CONFERENCE 2009 Rank and file report

Stu Crawford is an executive member of the Port Chalmers Dunedin Branch of the Mari- time Union. He attended the October 2009 Triennial Conference of the Union as a delegate. It was the first time he’d been to a Conference and the Maritimes talked to him about what he got out of the Conference. “This was the first MUNZ conference I’d been to. I’ve been a member for about 2 and 1/2 years. I started as a B on a 3-day week, 24 hour guarantee, since then I’ve become a full time cargo handler. That involves driving straddles and machinery, washing and lashing containers, landing Wellington seafarers branch observers Barry Millington and Tony Mowbray and hatching.” “I was elected to the executive in 2007 and The CTU and Labour Party are working on last year (2008) I attended the MUA Youth Rank and file campaigns. Conference in Australia. This was the first The proposed privatization of ACC is MUNZ national meeting I had been to.” a real shocker as it is not in trouble as “What I found good about it were the in- report the Government would have us believe, ternational speakers – they gave a perspec- and the basis of the CTU/Labour Party tive from the outside. I was interested in by Tony Mowbray campaign will be to alert us to the fact it the big fight the ILWU have for health care Wellington Branch, MUNZ 1154 actually has $11 billion reserves. in the USA. On 27–29 October I was fortunate to attend All the internationals gave a brief history The Japanese delegate spoke about chang- the Maritime Union Triennial Conference of their own campaigns and struggles in ing their Government and how important it in Wellington as an observer. their respective countries, many parallels is to have influence over the Government.” We had a significant international guest to our own. The conclusion was the ‘must’ “Phil Goff seemed to have a presumption list as well as a good turnout of delegates of international solidarity. that we should support Labour but he and observers from our own Union. I think it was best summed up by ILWU seemed unprepared to give an undertak- This was pleasing to see not only for the Vice President Ray Familathe when he said ing at looking at some of the issues like Conference but as a tribute to our outgoing “international issues are international.” casualization and yellow unions.” General Secretary Trevor Hanson. This was well proved in the Napier “I thought Andrew Little (Labour Party I would like to thank Trevor for his dispute which may have had a different President) performed a lot better.” contribution to the Union movement, outcome without international solidarity. “I spoke to the ILWU delegates and the especially the Maritime Union, and wish We had reports from Communications Japanese and to some of the other MUNZ him all the best in his retirement. officer Victor Billot, ITF reports from delegates.” We had the obligatory conference opening Grahame MacLaren and Matt Purcell “With the remits, it sometimes looked and then an opening address from the (from Australia). There were also like there was a lack of unity amongst the Hon. Phil Goff and Darien Fenton MP. superannuation updates from the trustees. branches. Some of the remits seemed very They highlighted the job losses in New MUA West Australian Branch Secretary focussed on the local ports, there seemed Zealand during the past year and the Chris Cain gave a promising outlook for to be a lack of cohesiveness. Ports need to National Party’s anti-worker policies being the Australian oil and gas projects with think outside their own domain.” put in place through things like proposed good scope for future employment within “I would encourage all union delegates privatization and ACC. the industry. and exec members to take the opportunity It was good to hear him say when Labour It was fitting that all branches agreed to to attend a conference if they can. It gives is re-elected they would reverse such make an annual payment to our veterans you a wider perspective.” legislation. This only proved to me the as these members are just as important as “We had a pretty good mix from Port hard work the working class had in front the youth of our organization. Chalmers. It is an ageing demographic in of us again. It was also pleasing to hear that MUNZ the industry. But you need the youth so All members of every Union need to be are serious about setting up successful they can take over when the others leave.” active within their organization to repel training courses again. “It seems to me we need to get involved these attacks, with no time to sit back These training courses are crucial as the in the road transport sector, we need to pretending it may not happen. youngsters entering the industry have no build unionism in that sector. I come from This shows now more than ever the or limited knowledge of unionism. This is a truck driving background. importance of organization in the in no way their fault, as they are products You’ve got to make it attractive to people workplace with the present Government of the ECA regime of the 1990s. in that industry. I spoke to the Americans slashing hard fought for rights like smoke Throughout the conference our remits and the Japanese about this – the Japanese and lunch breaks, ACC, and even one were worked through in sessions and there have a truck driving section in the Union. of our most precious conditions, the was a lot of discussion on them. None was By doing this we’d improve the situation stopwork meeting. rejected. within the ports. What about starting with CTU President Helen Kelly and EPMU I will close my report by congratulating container truck drivers?” Secretary/Labour Party President Andrew all successful candidates in our recent Little reiterated the issues facing all elections and urge all members to get workers. active and organize. 26 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz CONFERENCE 2009

Wellington delegates, from left: Glen Wyllie, Mike Clark, John Whiting, Joe Fleetwood MUNZ members at Conference 2009, from left: John Shaw (Wellington Seafarers), Wayne Davies (Wellington Seafarers), Taff Hicks (Nelson), George Clark (Wellington Seafarers), Bill Lewis (Nelson)

South Islanders: from left, National President Phil Adams, Bluff delegate Ross Tangney and Nelson delegate Brian Callaghan

New Zealand ITF co-ordinator Grahame McLaren with Bluff Branch Secretary Ray Fife, Auckland Waterfront Branch Local 13 President Denis Carlisle speaks from the recently elected Assistant General Secretary conference floor while Local 13 delegate Alec Tairua looks on

Conference Minutes These will be available at all branch offices for members to read in December. Thanks to Dawn Clark for her massive work in record- ing and transcribing the minutes.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 27 REPORTS Labour Party Conference by Garry Parsloe and position ourselves not in front of but Notice of dismissal of no less that 4 weeks; National Vice President alongside voters in the 2011 elections. Compensation for redundancy in the The Labour Party Annual Conference was The next speaker was Labour Party amount of 4 weeks remuneration for the held in Rotorua, 11-13 September 2009. President Andrew Little. first full year of the employee’s continuous Day one opened with the introduction of Andrew stated that the base of the Labour employment with the employer; Delegates/Affiliates. Party is the Trade Unions and those unions Further compensation for redundancy MUNZ was welcomed to the conference as are the anchor for the Labour Party. in the amount of 2 weeks remuneration the newest Affiliate. Andrew went on to say that the unions for each subsequent full or partial year of John Ryall from the SFWU gave a report must be in the forefront of the debates that the employee’s continuous employment from the Employment Relations Policy are taking place within the party. with the employer, up to a maximum Committee. Andrew concluded that we must have entitlement of 26 weeks remuneration. He expanded on many of the good things everything in place going into the next At the end of Darien’s presentation there that were done to lift the minimum elections in 2011. was a long and full debate from affiliates conditions for New Zealand workers Next speaker was Secretary of the Labour on this most important issue. during the 1999-2008 Labour Government, Party Chris Flatt. After lunch on day one we gave a including: Chris spoke on some of the issues that the presentation to Mike Sweeney for his four weeks annual leave, lifting the party is facing. contribution to the Labour Party. minimum entitlement and method The second presentation was for of payment for sick leave and Mike Smith the out-going General bereavement leave. Secretary for his contribution to the Payment of time-and-a-half for Labour Party. those working on public holidays. After the presentations we had an 14 weeks paid parental leave. Election of Officers for the coming Greater security of employment for year. vulnerable workers. After the Elections for Officers we An almost 100% increase in the entered into discussions on the minimum wage and its extension to remits that were before the Party young workers. Conference. Statutory rest breaks during the The next speaker was Labour working day. Finance spokesperson David John concluded by stressing the Cunliffe. importance of holding onto all of David spoke on the benefits that our hard won conditions. workers receive under a Labour The next speaker was Trevor Government as opposed to the Mallard MP who spoke on removal of those benefits under a Industrial Relations policy National Government. development. After David’s presentation we spent He said it is important that we grow Next speaker was Charles Chauvel some time on General Business before the our strength so as we can deliver in MP who spoke on policy development closing of day one. 2011, especially around wages and on Dependent Contractors’ rights and On the evening of day one we had the superannuation. protections. official opening of the Conference. The next speaker was President of the Charles spoke on the Members Bill This contained Powhiri, Karakia, a Council of Trade Unions Helen Kelly. Project/Independent Contractors Bill. welcome from Rotorua Mayor Kevin Helen spoke on Social Partnerships, Charles then addressed all the problems Winters and Steve Chadwick MP for Collective Bargaining, Union Structures that Contractors and contracting out Rotorua. and how unions operate. brings to unions and their members. The above was followed by the President’s Helen addressed some of our present At the end of Charles’s presentation there address from Andrew Little, Leader disputes and how best we fight around was a full debate from affiliates on this of the Labour Party Phil Goff, Leader these disputes. most important subject. of the Progressive Party Jim Anderton Jill Ovens from the SFWU spoke on Next speaker was Darien Fenton MP. and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, climate change. Darien addressed her Redundancy Annette King. Jill stated that the issue of climate change Protection Private Members Bill. Darien All the speakers were positive and all has to be taken on globally and it is stated that her bill was drawn from the believed that a Labour victory was important that New Zealand and the ballot last month. The Bill is based on the achievable in 2011. rest of the world tidy up their carbon recommendations of the Public Advisory On day two, Saturday 12 September 2009 footprints. Group on restructuring and redundancy we went into Remit Workshops. The next speaker was Leader of the Labour and aims to provide all working New Russell Mayn and I attended Workshop Party Phil Goff. Phil gave an overview Zealanders with basic redundancy 1, Economics and Environment. of all the good work that the last Labour protection to help tide them over between This workshop covered Economic Government did. jobs. Development, Industrial and Regional Phil then went on to say that the last Under the Bill all New Zealanders who Development, and Transport. Labour Government did make mistakes are made redundant will have a minimum After morning smoko on day two and we must learn from those mistakes right to:

28 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz REPORTS

Russell and I attended a forum to listen to presentations from Phil Twyford MP, Mayor of Manukau Len Brown and Chairman of the Auckland Regional MUA National Council Mike Lee. All the speakers were determined to address and fix major transport problems and were also opposed to any sale of Council public assets e.g. the Ports of Auckland. They were well aware of the benefits of keeping our ports in public hands. 2–5 November 2009, Sydney In the lunch hour on day two I attended a Union Campaigns Session where we heard reports on the Telco Visionstream Dispute, by Garry Parsloe the SFWU Healthy Hospitals Campaign, National Vice President Day one concluded with the MUA the Dairy Workers Union Dispute with General Secretary Trevor Hanson and I at- financial report. Open Country Cheese and a report from tended the above Conference in Sydney. Day two opened under the heading of Darien Fenton MP on her Redundancy The Conference opened with Paddy “Preparing for the ITF Congress 2010” and Protection Bill. Crumlin addressing some of the strategic “Building Strategic Organising Alliances” After lunch on day two Russell and I priorities for the next 12 months. and “Building Regional Solidarity”. attended a session headed New Zealand’s The official opening of the Conference There were a number of speakers Economic Future. was from the Minister for Infrastructure, including Paddy Crumlin (MUA), Tony In this session there was a debate around Transport, Regional Development and Maher (CFMEU), Tony Sheldon (TWU), Fonterra’s behaviour and how Maersk is Local Government Anthony Albanese. Bob Hayden (RTBU), Garry Parsloe with Fonterra driving where we export This section was headed “The future for (MUNZ), Trevor Hanson (MUNZ), Wayne from and what ports we shift cargo Australian Maritime Unions”. Butson (RMTU), John Mahuk (PNG between. Anthony stated that there is no Labour Maritime and Transport Workers Union), Day two concluded with a presentation Party without the input of the Trade Union Rigoberto Monteiro (Timor Leste Trade from President New Zealand Council of movement. Union Federation) and Mick Doleman Trade Unions Helen Kelly. He went on to talk about shipping and (MUA). Helen spoke about the impending attacks how important it was to have a strong All speakers addressed issues that their on the Holidays Act, the 90 Day Law, Australian shipping industry. unions were involved in with most unemployment, Collective Bargaining, After the morning break on day one speakers giving their views on how to deal union coverage and union density. Paddy Crumlin opened his session headed with all the problems that Trade Unions On day three, Sunday 13 September “Getting the Agenda for the next 3 years”. face in today’s climate. 2009 the conference reconvened with a Paddy talked about skills for training, The next session was a Queensland Branch Financial Report. working with the ACTU, single voyage report presented by Branch Secretary Mick We then had a report from the new Labour permits, tonnage tax, International Carr. Party Secretary Chris Flatt. Registers, Cabotage and maritime industry Mick reported on developments to bring Chris addressed some of the dark years training. the Southern Queensland Branch and the in politics and some of the great gains by The next session was headed “The Northern Queensland Branch into one Labour in their years in Government. National Shipping Policy Agenda”, Queensland Branch. Before morning smoko on day three we “Consolidating the New Government Day two concluded. had the Leaders Address from Phil Goff. Shipping Policy” and “Looking forward to Day three opened with a Tasmanian Phil spoke at length on all the benefits the second term”. Branch report that was presented by the that Labour brings to workers and their This section was delivered by Paddy Branch President Jason Campbell. families. Phil went on to address some of Crumlin (MUA), Martin Byrne (AIMPE) Jason stated that the Tasmanian Branch the mistakes of the past and the need to and Fred Ross (AMOU). is in growth mode and there was a get it right before heading into the 2011 All speakers spoke on how best to support requirement for another official in the Elections. a vibrant maritime industry, labour reform, Branch to handle all the growth. Labour will look after the quality of life for manning and other industry issues. The next session was headed “The families, will look after the youth of New After lunch on day one we had another MUA National Growth Plan” and it was Zealand and ensure that there will be a job session from Paddy Crumlin regarding the presented by Warren Smith and Ian Bray for everyone that wants one. strategic priorities for the next 12 months. the two Assistant National Secretaries. Phil went on to talk about KiwiSaver, Paddy expanded on the duties and Both speakers spoke about an organising Superannuation, skilled work, coverage of the Executive over the year in strategy, growth and campaigns. unemployment, redundancy provisions, their allocated areas. They expanded on proposed new tonnage, education and a better New Zealand. The next session was presented by Mick diving and towage issues. At noon we had a Conference Closing Doleman and was headed “Building a Ray Familaithe from the ILWU gave a address from Annette King before we strong well resourced union structure – report on some of the struggles the ILWU all departed from a very positive and securing decent work”. are facing. productive Conference. Mick enlarged on the MUA union dues Just prior to smoko we had a Veterans’ structure. report from Fred Krausert from the MUA He said that the union was working hard Veterans Association. to get away from cash payments and onto Fred reported on some of the campaigns Direct Debit payments. that the Veterans are involved in. He The next session was around some expanded on health reform and medical proposed changes to the rules. It was systems. presented by MUA National Legal Officer [Continued next page] Jo White. www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 29 REPORTS

[continued from previous page] Mick spoke on shipping, stevedoring, After morning smoko we had a women’s offshore oil and gas and diving. Wellington report delivered by MUA National Mick went on to say that we must Women’s Liaison Officer Mich-elle Myers. maintain high safety standards in all our Mich-elle stated that now over 5% of the areas of employment. Waterfront MUA membership are women. The next speaker was Steve Todd from the The next session was a Victorian Branch U.K Rail and Maritime Transport Union. by John Whiting report that was presented by the Branch Steve spoke on amalgamations, Secretary Kevin Bracken. Kevin spoke international solidarity, trade union about the proposed third terminal for leadership, employment opportunities and Trevor Hanson Melbourne, freight rates and other branch political issues. We would like to pay tribute to retiring issues. The next report was the Western General Secretary Trevor Hanson who The next session was a Youth Report Australian Branch report which was has been a member of the Wellington presented by Mich-elle Myers. presented by WA Branch Secretary Chris Waterfront branch for many years. It was a good report which addressed Cain. We moved his nomination for Life the need to promote youth within the Chris spoke on the growth of the offshore membership of the Union at the May 2009, Industry. industry in the Western Australia. National Executive meeting. The next presentation was from the ILWU Chris then expanded on other projects This was a fitting recognition of Trevor’s Canadian Branch (Vancouver). They in Western Australia especially offshore, dedication in the service of Maritime reported on issues facing their union diving, barging, moorings and service Union members and earlier of Waterfront especially collective bargaining, disputes vessels. workers. and organising. The next session was headed “The Fair As others have already noted, Trevor never After lunch on day three we had a Darwin Work Act, Award Modernisation, New forgot his connection with the rank and Branch report then a presentation from EBA Template”. file members. National Secretary of the Australian This session was presented by the MUA On a personal note I would like to thank Workers Union Paul Howes. Paul talked Legal Officers. Trevor for his ready support and assistance about the importance of International There was discussions and debates around to me and the Branch during the period Solidarity and local unions working issues such as single voyage permits. 1996 to 2003 when we were faced with together. Late in the afternoon on day four we a hostile Port Company management The next presentation was from Tony had a session headed “Developing wielding the Employment Contracts Act Maher of the CFMEU. Tony spoke on the the Australian Transporting Unions on us. need for unions to work together, climate Federation (TUF)”. Trevor, we wish you and Anne a long and change, economic development and union The speakers were Paddy Crumlin (MUA), happy retirement whilst knowing you will density. Tony Sheldon (TWU) and Bob Hayden retain an ongoing interest in the progress The last presentation on day three (RTBU). of the Maritime Union. was from the Maritime Mining and Under the above heading the Chairman Power Credit Union and the Maritime invited ITF Secretary David Cockroft to Port Company - CentrePort Superannuation Report. address the Council. The presentations addressed the There were discussions and debates about We have been engaged in ongoing importance of saving and having an how best to build the TUF and advance negotiations with CentrePort around the understanding of investment strategies the benefits that the building will bring to falloff in box numbers handled through and the returns on those investments. workers and unions. the Wellington container terminal. Day three concluded. Day four concluded with Paddy Crumlin As always in these situations, the Day four opened under the heading summing up on the way forward. employer seeks relief from their financial “Safety in the Maritime Sector” and was It was a very productive National Council setbacks out of our terms and conditions. presented by Mick Doleman. Meeting. The negotiations have reduced a long wish list down to the real agenda around drive times and some other amendments to conditions. Whatever is the final shape of the proposals, implementation will depend on Maritime Union photos online our membership’s endorsement. The alternative, changes being imposed by www.flickr.com/maritimeunion the Company, would force us into a fight to protect ourselves. In closing, we wish all the members of the Maritime Union season’s greetings and all the best in continuing the struggle.

30 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS Mount Maunganui Tauranga

by Eddie Cook Firstly condolences to Eddie and his family for the sad loss of his mother. The port is down in volumes on cargo so far in the first 6 months (27%) but looks to be a better outlook in the future. Finally a good deal for our members at Comvita after all this time but the wait was worth it. Ballance is still proving to be a hard one but we have still got a few tricks yet so we will see what happens. The last of the NZL members are in the process of getting their redundancies thanks to the Kiwifruit contract going to ISO, but it is not the end of the story so we will see what we can come up with and wish them all the best in their search for new jobs. C3 are in the process of changes for Tauranga members, October 2009, from left: O’Brian Williams, Luke Maaloga, Tahu Ihe, Peter Winiata and Branch Secretary Eddie Cook everyone although only short term and thanks to Ray, Stu, Tony, Whetu, Dave and Russell for reaching a good result. The AGM for the branch is on 15 December so hopefully we have a good turnout and lots of people to help out on the Committee. Many thanks to Corrine for all the great work that she did for the union as she was made redundant due to circumstances beyond our control but wish her all the best for the future. Should be hearing a lot of good things coming up soon for the branch as there is a heap of brilliant ideas floating around so remember to keep sticking together and we will end up winning.

Gisborne by Dein Ferris We have nothing to report this issue other Tauranga Mount Maunganui Branch Secretary Eddie Cook and Branch President Peter Harvey at the 2009 Conference than to thank Trevor for his input into the Gisborne Branch over the last twenty odd years. Welcome to Joe and Ray as our new Officials along with encumbents Phil and Garry. We wish all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 31 PORT ROUNDUPS

Russell Mayn, EPMU National Secretary Andrew Little and Garry Parsloe at an EPMU Rally. Garry is presenting a cheque from MUNZ to support the EPMU’s struggle with Telecom.

Auckland members at Conference 2009, from left: Daniel Staley, John O’Neill, Craig Harrison, Carl Findlay, Craig Marsh and Waine Wolfe

32 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS

The challenge for the Port Company in Interport Auckland the New Year is to re-engage with its Interport is scheduled for February 2010 employees, accept that their employee’s and thanks to the New Plymouth Branch choice is to have union delegates represent everything looks likes it’s on track for a Local 13 them in the workplace and be listened to great weekss entertainment as always. by the Company. The whisper is that the Auckland They do not wish to be dealt with on an by Russell Mayn Fishermen are going to win the award for individual basis, this approach has been the best Groper and that the Golfers are You know the year is nearly over when firmly rejected time and time again, the focusing on the indoor sports. you get a ring from Victor telling you that choice is to have collective representation you have nearly missed the deadline for as members of the Maritime Union of New Denis Carlisle the Maritimes magazine. Zealand. It only seems a couple of weeks since the In a recent memorandum the company It would be wrong not to acknowledge last report and had the same phone call. stated “its approach was to engage directly the considerable contribution that Denis The year for local 13 has had its ups with their employees and at the same time Carlisle has made to the Maritime Union and downs, set amongst the backdrop as required by legislation or employment and to the working class throughout New of the financial crisis and the problems agreements recognise their employee’s Zealand. that follow for all ports when the cargo rights to representation”. Denis has been President in Auckland volumes fall. This can only be interpreted as we will for some fifteen years firstly for the New We finally settled the Collective deal with the Union when required by law Zealand Waterfront Workers Union and Employment Agreement with the Ports but otherwise we are not interested. subsequently for the Maritime Union of of Auckland, this agreement covers the The only reply from the Union to such a New Zealand. majority of members in the port and it statement can and always be “That the It would be fair to say that his tenure would be fair to say that the negotiation Union is here to stay”. in office has been in some of the most was a long and at times bitter exchange All this demonstrates to the workforce difficult industrial arenas for sometime. between the Union and the Company. is that if the Union was not around this Through the Employment Contracts Whilst the hope was that the signing off would be the attitude the company would Act and the rebuilding that followed, would bring some semblance of stability take in dealing with them as individuals. his ability to preserve and enhance in the port, I believe the opposite has been I wonder if other port users who are conditions on the Auckland Waterfront is achieved. currently dealing with the Port Company unquestionable and I have been fortunate At present the workforce and the Union management are experiencing the same enough to learn many skills from him. are frustrated with what they perceive as frustrations? I have witnessed the Irish temper in full a return to industrial relations that in the Finally we have all the stevedoring flight and been on the receiving end a past has produced negative results. companies and the port company in couple of times as well but the wit and The consolidation of the two terminals at contract and I cannot think of when foresight has always been there and has the port, Bledisloe and Fergusson has left we have achieved this in a long time. served the Local admirably. a bitter taste in the mouth of many who Considering the financial crisis and the The progression from Individual work at the coal face. repercussions associated with this debacle Employment Agreements to Collective The Union throughout this process this will hopefully mean that when we are Agreements was a considerable challenge disagreed with the company that due to return to the table negotiations will and has not been achieved easily, and as consolidation would be a progressive and take place under a buoyant economy. President Denis can be proud of those more efficient formula for the port. achievements. The loss of experienced stevedores has National Government All these kind words are going to cost left the port with insufficient manpower him a beer, but joking aside, no bugger it The National Government has a few to service the vessels. As the largest port at least half a dozen. To quote an excerpt choice Christmas presents to leave us in New Zealand we believe the primary from his final report to the November under the tree, firstly the changes to the focus should be on turning vessels around stopwork meeting “I was born working ACC legislation and the introduction of and this seems to have been lost in the so class, I have lived working class and I will privatization within the scheme. called consolidation. die working class” – I think that sums it up Our industry is dangerous and any Attempts to engage with the Port pretty well. watering down of coverage and benefits Company to address the concerns from For those who have read the Port News will impact directly on workers and their the Union and delegates have been less Christmas edition you will recognise the families. Secondly the 2025 taskforce than successful and if what we are hearing tribute to Denis as being the same, the recommendations to the government will around the traps is accurate other port reason for this was that it was just too hard appear on the agenda and there will be the users using the port are facing the same to find any other kind words with telling expected changes to employment relations frustrations with consolidation. “porkies”. legislation to contend with. This brings us to the question of how is We all wish Denis the best in his retirement On the bright side all the Union Christmas change measured and when is the time to and look forward to his contribution as a functions are just around the corner, it is a review whether change has provided what Veteran. time to meet up with current friends and it was originally intended to. If the result I would like to take the opportunity to just have a natter with the Veterans. of consolidation was to have trucks backed wish all members and veterans of the We should never lose sight that part of the up, vessel turnaround times increased and Maritime Union of New Zealand and their Union is based on socialising and for me morale at the lowest I have it for years, families a Merry Christmas and a Happy the Old timers and Christmas functions then it gets a tick. and Safe New Year. are part of our heritage and should never To our office administrator Fay Glassford be lost. a big thanks for all the work she has put into the office over what has been a very busy time. “Touch One Touch All”

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 33 PORT ROUNDUPS

It is hoped at this function the life Union Shout and Retired Members’ Shout Port Chalmers members and our last two 1951 lockout This was held on Friday 11 December at watersiders Walter (Ginger) Meehan and the WIC bureau. After the year we had it Gordon (Buck) Forgie will be presented was a good chance to mingle and have a Dunedin with polo shirts. beer and feed with our retired members The photo of John Carrington in the last who fought for the conditions we currently by Phil Adams Maritimes, was as noted the grandfather enjoy. of Phil, Les and Keith Adams. He was of Season’s greetings from Port Chalmers. course also the great grandfather of Fraser 4 High Straddles Although it is the season of good will in (Phil’s son.) the terminal, it has been a very stressful The company has recently purchased two time recently for all concerned. Executive resignation 4-high stacking straddles from Kalmar to With the loss of 40K TEUs and the add to our fleet. We believe they are the Union knocking back a proposal which During this time of restructuring Andrew only 4-high straddles in New Zealand included 10 hour night shifts but no forced Jennings resigned as an executive member. and will alleviate the lack of space in the redundancies. After that the company Andrew had been an executive member terminal. decided they would interview all cargo for about three years and in that time handlers with the intention of making 4 served the branch well. As a result of his Transfers compulsory redundancies. Our officials resignation Andrew Corbett will take Graham Wright has taken a position in looked at the situation and after last his position for the duration of the term. Harbour Control, Ron Lee has taken a minute negotiations which included the Congratulations Andrew. position in the garage, Ian McLean has possibility of industrial action, they took a taken Dicky’s old job on the pilot. proposal to a full meeting of members. Sick list We wish them well with their new This included permanent washpad men Rodger Paul (as a result of car accident), ventures. and up to 10 lashers being trained in Peter Sharples and John Johnston are all the role of lander. If accepted, no forced off work. We wish them a speedy recovery. House Bus redundancies would take place. After good debate at the meeting the Branch calendars Commiserations must go to member Don proposal was accepted and now we Saxton who recently had the misfortune of believe peace in our time is with us. How Ship planner James Passmore has put having his new house bus, worth around long for, no one knows. together a 2010 calendar, with photos of $17 000, go up in flames on the road hours I would personally like to thank the current members. Any person requiring after being purchased. Branch President Ian Quarrell and one should see either James or Phil Adams. Don is philosophical about the loss as Vice President Graeme Wall for their Well done James. there was no injury involved. outstanding work on behalf of the branch during this stressful time, and also the Caps and beanies Triennial Conference Executive for standing behind us. These are available from the Secretary and Our contingent to the Conference was But all credit must go to the membership polo shirts are also available. There is even impressed with the guest speakers for staying united throughout, so from the one for Lobby. and general debate. At our December officials and the Executive a big thank you. meeting there will be a report back on the It certainly made our job a lot easier Japanese guests Conference. and was done in the full tradition of Our team was Phil Adams, Ian Quarrell, watersiders throughout the years, and all After the national Triennial Conference Graeme Wall, Paul Napier and Stu of our members should be proud of that in October, our branch hosted the Deputy Crawford. fact. General Secretary of ZenKowan (All Japan Dockworkers’ Union) and his interpreter. Now everyone can enjoy Christmas Meetings without any threats hanging over our They were very impressed with our heads. harbor, Larnach’s Castle and Dunedin in It is heartening to see the numbers turning A big thank you also to those who took general. The Executive hosted them that up for our last meeting, including 87 voluntary redundancy which in turn saved evening at the Custom House restaurant. members at our AGM. At the previous jobs. Most were long serving members and On Saturday Phil Adams and wife Barbara meeting we had a turn out of 120. in particular our new life member Dave took them through to Queenstown where Meetings are the cornerstone of our Union Dick, our much vaunted returning officer they took a trip on the Earnslaw and went and these numbers mean that members are and former executive member Cyril Todd, jet boating on the Shotover. interested in the running of our Branch. and former executive members Keith They have since sent a thank you for Currie, Rick Richon and George Meikle. looking after them while in the South. National Union elections All have given great service to the Union Holiday Unit The national elections for the Union are and losing their experience at this time now over and I thank the Union for having mean the branch will have some catching With Queenstown in mind, the holiday faith in me to be re-elected unopposed as up to do. unit is proving popular and can be rented National President. Congratulations to Joe We are also losing the long serving by contacting Ian Quarrell on 021472021 Fleetwood and Ray Fife for gaining the Webster brothers Steve and Harley and and Alan Middleditch on 034728753. General Secretary and Assistant General they will leave a large gap as both were Secretary positions respectively. excellent workers and members. End of year events I am sure Vice President Garry Parsloe and I will have no problem working with Veteran and retired members’ function The annual Kids’ Party is on 19 December at 3pm at the Harbour Rugby Club. This either of them. Our branch thanks the above members and is a time honored event and is eagerly Commiserations to the Maritimes’ we hope to see you each year at our Retired looked forward to by our children. The editor for failing to gain a position, and members and Union shout, which this year annual Christmas Social was held on the particularly Russell whom I have enjoyed will be held on the 11 December 2009. 28 November at the Zingari Richmond working with in his position of Assistant Rugby Club. General Secretary. 34 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS

Russell always kept in touch and his knowledge as a trustee of the Super Scheme was invaluable. Hopefully Russell will continue to contribute as officials of his calibre and ability are hard to find. Also I convey from our branch all the best to Denis Carlisle who is retiring as President of Local 13. Denis has also kept in touch with our branch offering assistance where he could and he will be missed as a strong leader in our Union.

Port Chalmers Cargo Services Noel Currie reports PCCS are relatively busy at the moment with logs, fish and fertilizer. Our branch offers its deep sympathy to PCCS member Terry Dougherty at the tragic loss of his son Chris. Chris worked as a casual at times, It’s that time of the season again in Bluff –but will Santa make an appearance again this year? although I met him only once, I was From left, Andrew Morgan, Wayne Finnerty, Tom Morgan, Kevin Bryan, Peter Topi, Aorangi Black, and of course Santa impressed by his attitude. He will be (possibly also Bluff branch president) deeply missed. Now it is the responsibility of the National That is our final Maritimes roundup for Bluff Executive to set strategies so that we can the year. This year has seen our branch, implement them. particularly the Terminal members, by Ray Fife pushed to the limit. The Port However in a way it has a positive as Firstly I would like to thank all those members have seen how being in a united who gave me their support in the recent The port has noticed a slight increase Union prepared to fight to retain and gain National Elections. in cargo movements over the past few wages and conditions reaps rewards in the I would like to congratulate Joe Fleetwood months, I believe that we are not quite out end. As officials, this support makes our in being elected General Secretary and of the recession yet, even though others are job easier. my commiserations to Russell Mayn and saying that we are. How can we truly be Although the 11 members named as Victor Billot. out of a recession when the unemployment possible redundancies are known, it is I am taking on the job as Assistant General rate is still increasing and there is no real now time to support them as they were Secretary with a commitment to work with job growth? unlucky and any one of us could have Branches and rank and file members to been in that 11. ensure that we can achieve outcomes that Trevor Hanson The strength of our Union is to be unified will benefit all members in all areas of the On behalf of this Branch I would like to 100% and this will see us move to the union movement. thank our outgoing General Secretary future as the major maritime union in New One area that is of importance is Trevor Hanson for his service over the past Zealand. empowering the members so they are 19 years. Trevor led this union through Merry Christmas from the branch. more involved and have their say, another some pretty tough years, particularly the is to ensure that health and safety in the 1990’s where we were at the mercy of a workplace is improved through ongoing union bashing National Government. education. Trevor was not afraid to speak out on issues that affected the union movement, Triennial Conference he fought along side the membership Executive member Ross Tangney and when scabs were trying to take our jobs I attended the Triennial conference in and was always available to listen to any October. Both of us felt that it was a very concerns that Branches had. positive conference with the union moving We wish Trevor all the best in his retirement. in the right direction in looking to the future. All guest speakers were well worth Old Timers’ Function listening to. Once again we had 70 ex-members Speaking to delegates from other ports attending our yearly event. Our past who were attending conference for the first members thoroughly enjoyed the evening, time, it was interesting to note that they the comradeship they had formed while enjoyed the experience immensely. on the waterfront still exists today and it It reinforced to them the need of solidarity showed in the way they greeted each other in the union movement. More delegates at the start of the night. need to attend these types of forums, One thing that came out of the evening was particularly younger members to learn the insistence by all those who attended what the union is all about. that this yearly get together not stop. The remits endorsed at Conference have On behalf of our members I would like to set a pathway forward for the union for wish all members throughout the country the next three years. a very merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 35 PORT ROUNDUPS

At the Timaru Branch Christmas Function, Saturday 21 November 2009, from left, Ron Cooper, Peter Groot, Rodney Donald (Mud Guard), Leath Sadler and Wally Glover

At the Timaru Branch Christmas Function, Saturday 21 November 2009, from left, Allan Park, Mick Charteris, Les Coffey, Alister Ferguson and Ken Meade

36 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS Timaru by Kevin Forde The Old Timers Function and Christmas Party was held on Saturday 21 November at the Town and Country Club. It was a good night. Attendees included Les Bush (age 93) and Andy McGovern (age 91). In some sad news, local retired member Rodney Donald known to all as “Mud Guard” who attended the function died the following day unexpectedly. He enjoyed his time at the function with old friends and workmates. Shipping in the port – ISO have taken sawn timber and this is of major concern to us to have a non-union outfit in the port At the Timaru Branch Christmas Function, Saturday 21 November 2009, from left, Ray Taylor, Graham Thin, Kevin Ancell again. and John Haly We are flat out with fertilizer, transfers in and out of port, fish and bulk cargoes and cross-hiring. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

At the Timaru Branch Christmas Function, Saturday 21 November 2009, from left, Alister Hyde, B. Crawford and Jerry Flynn

Timaru Branch President Kevin Forde

Photos by Rachel Fahey More photos online at www.flickr.com/maritimeunion

At the Timaru Branch Christmas Function, Saturday 21 November 2009, from left, Pat Coffey ,Len Stewart and Jim Charteris

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 37 PORT ROUNDUPS

Wednesday night was the dinner with tributes to retiring MUA members and officials Deputy National Secretary Jimmy Tannock and Assistant National Secretary Rick (NewZealyn) Newlyn plus some of our own officials – Local 13 President Denis Carlisle, Auckland Seafarers’ Vice President John O’Neill, Veterans’ secretary and former Assistant General Secretary Terry Ryan and last but not least retiring General Secretary Trevor Hanson, in that role for the past 19 years. This is only a brief, members are welcome to read the full 160 plus pages of the minutes which will be available at all branch offices in December.

Elections Once again the national union elections have come and gone, congratulations to the successful candidates and commiserations to the unsuccessful. Wellington Branch Maritime Union members join the rally in support of low paid workers Friday 27 November Thank you to all who voted, that’s what democracy is all about, your freedom of choice. Joe Fleetwood, like Trevor before him, KiwiRail has some huge challenges ahead, so it is Wellington KiwiRail is blaming the recession for the of paramount importance that as trade 13% fall in its freight volumes. unionists we get behind him and give him Also the proposed increase in the weight our full support at branch and national Seafarers trucks are allowed to carry could impact level. on its business by up to 10%. For a full list of national officials see page by Mike Clark The three ferries carried 2.2% fewer 3 of this magazine and for branch officials Branch Secretary commercial vessels, 6.4% fewer passengers see the inside back page. and 2.9% fewer passenger vehicles. Political Let’s hope as a Union that these figures Offshore On Friday 27 November there was a rally rise over the next few months and into Not much has changed in the offshore for low paid workers zero pay increase. the New Year, then they won’t be coming since the last journal and in late December Workers included in this category were to the crews to go outside the collective will see the finishing up of the “Ensco public services, schools and hospitals, agreements terms and conditions which 701” and the two support vessels the “Yeo some as low paid as $12.95 an hour. causes grief to officials and members Tide” and “Pacific Warlock” which have Speakers included CTU President Helen trying to sort it. provided work for our members over the Kelly, Labour MP Charles Chauvel, Green The Aratere has been dry docked in last two and a half years. MP Sue Kedgely, as well as rank and file Auckland for a couple of days for repairs The “Kan Tan 4” and the two Farstad workers. and also to take measurements for the tugs “Far Scimitar” and “Far Grip” have Some of these people with families are proposed lengthening which will enable now been put back to January because of struggling to survive now and can ill more freight to be transported across the technical problems. afford a zero pay increase as the CPI rate of strait. Because of industrial action happening inflation is running at 2%, so these workers One would hope that more seafarers will in the Oil and Gas sector in Australia are actually getting a pay decrease. be employed to lash the cargo so as there is over their EBA (Enterprise Bargaining It was ironic that one of the speakers minimal delay to turnarounds. Agreement) there have been limited pointed out John Key’s housekeeper was opportunities for members, but that will paid $20 an hour. Sue Kedgely noted Triennial Conference change when things are signed off over more than 290 in the health sector were The Triennial Conference was held in there as indicated by MUA officials at our on salaries over $100K while the CEO of Wellington at the Brentwood Hotel, Conference. TVNZ was on $800K. Kilbirnie, from 27–29 October. Demonstrations were also held in 27 towns Delegates from all ports were present Christmas and cities around New Zealand to coincide along with observers and of course our The Wellington offices will be closed only with strike action by workers hit by the international comrades from the MUA, for the statutory days over the holiday pay freeze. ILWU, RMT and All Japan Dockworkers. break, the office phones will be directed CTU President Helen Kelly said the pay The conference was opened by Labour over to officials’ mobiles in this period. freeze was a backward step because low leader Phil Goff and for the following Finally to all members, the officials and paid workers spend all their wages which three days speeches and remits took up a executive of the Wellington Branch wish is good for the economy, and New Zealand large portion of our time. all of you, your family and friends a very would never catch up with Australia if Merry Christmas and Prosperous New we could not increase the lowest incomes. Year, to those who are having a break over Most of all it was backward because the the holiday season, enjoy and stay safe. cost of living was rising so a wage freeze amounts to a wage cut for those least able to afford it.

38 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS Wellington Seafarers’ Christmas Function by Mike Clark Branch Secretary On Saturday evening 21 November the Wellington Branch had a successful Christ- mas function which doubled as a farewell for retiring General Secretary Trevor Hanson. This was the first function held by the branch except for the old-timers’ function At the Wellington Xmas Party, from left: in many years. Paul Saggers (Staggers), Alan Harkess, Joe Fleetwood, Glenn Wyllie and Alan Windsor The venue was the Bodega in Ghuznee Street with music provided by wellknown Wellington rock band Howzat, who kept the members on the dance floor for an amazing five hours of fun. The night was a huge success and it was great to see so many of the older members mingling and chatting with the younger ones, who out of their work clothes and in their civvies were very pleasant on the eyes – one standout was Paul Saggers (AKA Staggers the pirate) resplendent in red suit, snakeskin boots and panama hat. The Wellington organizers would like to thank all of you who participated in this occasion, especially those who travelled long distances to attend. Also to everyone else who took the time out of busy lives to make the night very special, thank you - also thanks to Mur- ray and the team at Bodega which turned out to be a great venue, for the service and food, and the bar staff who were under pressure with thirsty seafarers and dockers replenishing their empties. I’m sure given the success of the night your executive will be working hard over the coming months to ensure we have another, provided the funding is there. Waterfront representatives: The only disappointment about the night Wellington Waterfront Branch President Dave Winton and Branch Secretary John Whiting at the Wellington Xmas Function was the theft of a couple of handbags of members’ partners which resulted in a huge inconvenience to the ladies. To the perpetrators – thank your lucky stars you weren’t caught, because natural justice would have taken place.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 39 HEALTH AND FITNESS The Physical Initiative

Don’t we have different needs and Our office based cousins have the facility requirements? If our health has been of elevators (and often use them) but as relatively good up to now, do we need to seafarers we are called upon to use the make any changes for the future? stairs. The answer to all these questions is well, For some of us who are struggling with our “yes” and “no”, so let us spend the next fitness, moving from the engine room to couple of minutes looking into it further. our cabin deck is a big effort and we arrive at our cabin door very much out of breath. Fit for the Medical Examination Others experience neck, back, hip, knee or ankle pain when moving around or even Firstly, prior to entering the shipping in stationary positions. industry, all seafarers must obtain their More often than not we are unaware of ‘pre’ medical fitness certificate by passing the muscle imbalances, faulty posture a medical examination (given by an positions, inflexibility issues and repetitive approved medical practioner). movements that cause strain and overuse. When required this must be kept up to How we deal with these ongoing issues is date by passing the ‘periodic’ medical mostly left up to ourselves. examination. Some of us do have access to a gym on In these medical examinations: blood board the vessel. If we have received and urine samples, height, weight, eye adequate advice on the appropriate sight, respiration (lungs) and hearing gym exercises (given our current fitness are tested. These tests will highlight any condition) and instruction on how to use mild, moderate or serious health problems the equipment (no self plug intended requiring intervention before the seafarer here!),we have a good chance of improving is deemed medically fit for service. our fitness and health. Our age, personal medical history, genetics Cabin based exercising is another useful and family history can play a small part option. However in the many years of in the outcome of these assessments but My name is Carl Paddick and I am director working with seafarers I have never here’s where it gets interesting: of the Physical Initiative, a company met an individual who is practising an Obesity (high body fat), (non genetic) high that specialises in providing health and effective cabin based exercise programme. fitness programmes for the national and blood pressure and cholesterol levels, type international shipping industry. II diabetes (high blood sugar levels), obesity Fit for Shore Leave It is a real honour to be asked by MUNZ to related asthma (breathing difficulties) and write a piece for their magazine. certain forms of osteo-arthritis (problems When on leave some seafarers choose to For the past 17 years the Physical Initiative in the joints of the bones) are all very much unwind by spending time resting and has conducted literally thousands of within our control. relaxing. Others have an active lifestyle health and fitness assessments on seafarers Failing the periodic medical examination is participating in hobbies and sports (some from all over the world. The assessment a major concern for many seafarers every activities require an amount of physical findings continue to impress upon us year. The good news: it does not have to be conditioning). why our services are much needed in the this way! For the first few days, the shift workers industry, but rather than blatantly promote By making the appropriate and specific invest the time adjusting to land-based them, I wanted to share some of my changes, you can develop peace of mind in living and those who have families gather insights into why it is so important to stay the knowledge that passing your medical the necessary energy to run around with fit and healthy for sea faring duties. examination will be something that’s easy the children. Nowadays it’s very rare that a moment to do. So: from the discussion so far it seems the goes by without being exposed to the media and medical profession do have many messages of the media and health Fit for Sea a case when it comes to looking after ourselves, as seafarers need good health, industries telling us to “lose weight”, I am sure that I am not alone when I say lots of energy and optimal stamina and “exercise more”, “drink more water”, “eat that our land working friends and relatives fitness levels at sea and ashore. healthier” and “get more sleep”. have little concept of what it is like to work But are they right in asking us to spend Behind this advice is a billion dollar aboard a seagoing vessel. extra dollars to become fitter and healthier? industry waiting to take our dollars for The majority would struggle with the The answer is “No”! Let’s briefly look at the exchange of the latest pharmaceuticals, necessary stamina and fitness but it is what they’re asking us to do and then foods, supplements, exercise machines worth remembering that these 2 physical assessing if it really costs us anymore. and services that claim to achieve the best requirements must be maintained least we results in the shortest amount of time. find ourselves incapable of going to sea too. “Lose weight” For some, keeping up with the latest From my consultations with seafarers, I health and fitness trends is a pastime have found that fatigue continually poses Lose weight really means lose the extra we’ve come to know and love but for a significant problem upon crew health body fat and regularly eating nutritious many it’s a complete minefield that is and stamina. foods low in fat, sugar and salt saves you shrouded in skepticism due to the many Watchmen and those who perform around money as you’re not spending out on mixed messages of the ‘experts’. the clock shift duties are most affected but food your body doesn’t need (such as fast So as seafarers, should we be that if the ship is rolling for extended periods, food, sweets, fizzy drinks, including the concerned with all these health and fitness interrupted sleep patterns can deregulate zero sugar varieties, chips and alcohol in commandments? the energy levels of the entire swing. excess).

40 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS

Eating smaller portions cuts down the cost of food too. Practice makes perfect in this vital area – at sea and ashore.

“Exercise more” Walking, jogging, playing touch, swimming, volleyball and cricket (to name a few) are all cheap activities to participate in. If you like the thought of exercising with others, some councils have subsidised facilities, others have ongoing initiatives for families. Check with your local community sports facility or council regarding what facilities are available. Cleaning the car, doing the gardening, mowing the lawn, cleaning the house and taking the dog for brisk walks are all low or no cost activities that get us moving and assist fitness. Anyone can do them whatever the age.

“Drink more water” Congratulations to Lyttelton member Don Cameron who recently celebrated 30 years of service. From left, Terminal Manager Peter McDonald and Don Cameron. As long as the tap water has been deemed safe to drink, there will be no additional cost (above your water bill)! Bottled water has become all the rage Lyttelton lately but there’s no need to afford the Maritime Union extra outlay. Sure, if you don’t like the slight by Les Wells online chlorinated taste of some water supplies It has been a busy time for us here in get a bench top water filter (a relatively Lyttelton with many things happening inexpensive add-on). around Port. www.munz.org.nz “Eat healthier” C3 Limited Buying fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, The 32/7 agreement has been ratified by whole grains, and a moderate amount of the Lyttelton Stevedores who have re- fish, lean meat and dairy foods each week quested the 160/4 cycle stop immediately is no more expensive than buying the and the 32/7 commence as of 9 November. processed low nutrition equivalents. It’s just a matter of a little education (if at LSS all required) and discipline. They have been busy for the last few “Get more sleep” weeks. The men have also been doing out of Port transfers to Timaru. The men have Are you kidding me? This should come also been crosshired by Pacifica and C3 at no cost to you! While there’s no official Limited which seems to be working well. number of sleep hours required, going to bed earlier may increase energy levels the Pacifica next day and improve health. We went into mediation this week to try and get settlement on payment made to In conclusion the men that went redundant this year. We now understand that as seafarers, we We will be moving onto the Authority to need to be fit and healthy so that we can get this settled. pass our medical examinations, safely complete our sea duties and maintain LPC the optimal quality of life when on leave. The port company have recently devel- Regardless of job description, age, ethnic oped a Drug and Alcohol Policy which is background and sex we owe it to ourselves now being rolled out across the business. to make the necessary changes to our body The Drug and Alcohol program has been weight, exercise, eating, drinking and put together with the cooperation of the sleeping habits so that our health and fit- combined Unions in this Port. ness improves. We believe it is better to have a policy in The good news, we still get to keep our place that the Union has had input into money – healthy body, healthier financially! than one that has been imposed upon us. For more information: www.physicalinitiative.co.nz We would like to take this opportunity to wish all members and families a great Christmas and a happy New Year. www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 41 VIEWPOINT MUNZ–EPMUUNITE Union “Halloween March” in Auckland campaigning for a rise in the minimum Offshore wage (photo by John Darroch) Alliance

What has happened to real wages in New Zealand 1982–2009?

By Mike Treen Between March 1982 and June 1991 the Real ordinary time average hourly Unite National Director tax rate for the bottom 20% of wage and earnings have risen from $21.08 in Official data on wage movements in New salary earners increased from 15.8% to September 1996 to $25.06 in June 2009 Zealand point to a real wage decline of 18.0%, the middle 20% went from 25.3% to (measured in June 09 dollars). around 25% between 1982 and the mid 23.7% while the top 20% went from 38.5% Even using LCI figures there has been a 1990s that has never been recovered. to 28.4%. average of 1.3% difference between the There have been two series measuring It seems clear that for the big majority of median and mean changes every quarter wages in the period – the Prevailing wage and salary earners the tax changes between June 2000 and June 2009. The only Weekly Wage Index (discontinued in June would have made them worse off quarter where the median exceeded the 1993) and its replacement the Labour (especially including GST). mean was the most recent one. Cost Index. I have created a continuous The period from the mid 80s to mid series based on the LCI series back to 1982 90s also saw a 10% drop in the share Real wages have declined of GDP measured as “compensation of (by adjusting the PWWI numbers before We know from experience in the industries employees”. December 1992 when PWWI at 1000 was we represent that real wages have There was a corresponding rise in the equivalent to the LCI at 868). declined further than that represented proportion measured as “gross operating These numbers are in turn deflated by the by the average ordinary time wage. surplus”, that is profits and interest. CPI index covering the whole period. These industries were hit by the removal In today’s dollars that equals $18 billion What is revealed is that by the mid 1990s of allowances, penal rates for overtime from the pockets of workers to the coffers real wages had declined at least 25%. and weekend work, and casualisation of capital. There has been no recovery since then and of hours. We estimate the real income of Of course we were also told that if the cake real wages remain 25% below their 1982 housekeeping staff in major hotels is only was grown we would all benefit. A little peak. 60% what was earned in the 1980s pain now for the riches to come. This result can be directly attributed Households made up for the loss in real Productivity has increased by 80% to the combination of the massive de- wages by working more hours (principally between 1978 and 2008. So real wages are unionisation as a result of the anti-union more women and young people) and 25% lower but our output is 80% higher. employment laws and the recession that going into debt. accompanied it in the early 1990s. “Average wages” don’t capture the real The decline in real wages wasn’t offset position of the majority of wage and salary by a decline in tax rates for middle to low earners because the average has been income earners at that time. dragged up by the inflated incomes of the very wealthy in society.

42 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz VIEWPOINT

A report by Simon Collins in the New Housing bubble Big ticket items like motor vehicles are Zealand Herald (25 November 2006) found Throughout the world there was a housing seeing their sales hit a brick wall. that average family income in 2001 in bubble. But in New Zealand it was bigger House sales are down 50%. constant dollars was the same as in 1981 than most. Household expenditure in NZ is about despite the fact that the proportion of Writing in the Listener on October 18, two-thirds of GDP. women working went from 47% to 61% 2008, economist Gareth Morgan noted If average household expenditure were to and the percentage of families working that “average house prices used to be drop in New Zealand from 115% of GDP 50+ hours a week went from half to two twice a graduates salary; nowadays it is to just not spending more than current thirds. eight times that and the median salary income then that would equal at least a The proportion of households spending is less than the interest on the average 10% decline in GDP. more than 30% of their income on housing mortgage.” The 1990-91 GDP decline was about -2% has gone from 11% in the late 1980s to He included a chart which showed that and official unemployment rocketed to more than twice that today. the housing affordability for a 25- year 10% (with official rates of 25-30% for Maori 20% of NZ families with children live in 80% mortgage went from 20% of average and Pacific people). The consequences severe or significant hardship according to income for decades to 50% in a surge after would be terrifying. the Ministry of Social Development. 2000. Once the decline started it will be difficult Another chart revealed house prices were to stop. Global crisis 45% above the 30-year trend line. Just like the seemingly virtuous circle of more debt = more production = more jobs Across the globe this system seems to “Median house prices rose from 3.5 times then the reverse will be a vicious circle of produce more goods and services than can the median household income in 1991 to debt reduction = production decline – job be marketed profitably. 4.6 times the median household income in losses on a massive scale. Each time it runs into trouble it has sought 1997, leveled off until 2001, then rocketed to 6.3 times the average household income to expand its sphere of operations. Economic collapse Trade barriers in poorer countries get last year, roughly double the average in knocked down while they are maintained North America. As Rod Oram wote in the Sunday Star in the rich. Industries are privatised. Prices have fallen slightly since then to 5.7 Times: “The danger, though, is that the Controls on the movement of capital get times the median household income last economy will collapse. If the slowdown lifted. Property rights are entrenched. month.” starts to bite deeper, we’re risking a Wages get cut in one country to get a This was always going to end in tears. vicious downward spiral. Business competitive advantage over another. The government refused to do anything as confidence will crumble then capital Promises were made that if the rich got it couldn’t “interfere” in the operations of spending and employment will drop; a richer eventually it would trickle down to the free market – that is the freedom of big rise in unemployment will wreak havoc the rest of us. business to rob us blind. on highly indebted households; banks will Greed became normalised as a necessary Now the banks worldwide are in trouble sell off repossessed properties; and the part of getting ahead. Grotesque salaries as the bloated financial merry go round housing market will tumble.” were paid no matter what the performance comes to a halt and we discover their The New Zealand economy was kept of the companies. Outright fraud became massive debt creation (which gave them ticking over these last 15 years on debt. commonplace. billions in commissions and fees) ended up The combination of declining real wages, But it was never enough. New crises in the hands of households and businesses benefit cuts and overall government kept emerging – except now they had who could not repay. expenditure cuts produced a deep immediate international consequences as As the bubble deflates in housing prices recession in the early 1990s driving official capitalism was tied together by a thousand many working people will be left owing unemployment over 10%. threads in every country. more on their houses than they are worth. We got out of it because the rest of the The world’s banks were given even more A Canterbury University study by world started their debt fuelled growth freedom to create debt on a colossal scale Professor Chris Eves reported in the path and we picked up the coat tails. to keep everything ticking over. Personal, Sunday Star Times, 21 December 2008, Going into this recession we are in a much corporate and government debt kept on estimates that it is true for 20% of worse situation than 1990. growing. mortgages already. Real wages haven’t recovered and families In the US debt went from 163% of GDP in Everyone will be cutting back on spending are under pressure already. 1980 to 346% in 2007 (Rod Oram, Sunday – households and businesses. There can be no return to debt creation as a Star Times, 5 October 2008). Banks will be intensifying the cutbacks substitute to an expansion of real incomes In New Zealand average household debt by radically reducing their lending in a for the big majority. went from 60% of GDP 15 years ago to desperate attempt to restore their balance The deep inequality that grew in New 160% today. sheets. Zealand society and the absolute poverty This is the second most indebted in the We are entering a downwards spiral that exists at the bottom of the income OECD. and no one knows how far it will go. ladder must be addressed. This fuelled a housing price bubble as Will it be a simple recession with 10% Raising the minimum wage to two prices doubled since 2000 – as they did unemployment like the 1990s? Or are we thirds of the average wage is a vital first in the UK and Australia. We were told looking at 30% unemployment like the step giving everyone a fair share of the not to worry. We were encouraged to 1930s Depression? No one knows. economic pie. use our houses as an ATM machine. With the recession biting, unemployment Average household expenditure exceeded rising and banks restricting lending – www.unite.org.nz average income on average about 6% but it seems households are cutting their increasing to 15% in recent years. expenditure and retail sales are falling In the 3 decades before 1980 we saved rapidly. about 10% of our income.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 43 VIEWPOINT The never ending arm wrestle by Hector Thorpe Maritime of Union of Australia (MUA) MUA and MUNZ within the ITF MUNZ 3111 www.mua.org.au The ITF Executive is structured with a The MUA was established in 1993 through President and five Vice Presidents which Get organised the amalgamation of the Seamens’ Union are responsible their respective regions History records the maritime worker of Australia and the Waterside Workers’ or group being North America, Latin recognised early the importance of Federation. Both unions had a long history America, European, Asia/Pacific, and organisation via unions to achieve work of solidarity with their first joint industrial Women’s. National Secretary Paddy place conditions. action taken by Sydney Wharfies and Crumlin has lifted the MUA profile within Seafarers’ in 1837. the ITF as he is Vice President of the Asia/ Multiple Unions National Unionism was formalised in 1902 Pacific Section and spokesperson for the and 1906 respectively. Dockers’ Section. The diversity and nature of their The past Trans Tasman Accord, job sharing Kathy Whelan was NZ’s ITF Inspectorate profession together with the ever changing opportunities, a uniformed Trade Union for many years in which time she secured influence of the Industry Commission, Name and logo plus a history of “genuine many victories and raised the profile for Industry employment, Shipping Company solidarity” bonds the MUA and MUNZ. NZ. Grahame Mc Laren is our current employment, Port Company employment Inspector and National Vice President or Government legislation ensured many International Transport Worker’s Federation Garry Parsloe is NZ’s ITF Convenor. unions were established including but not (ITF) limited to (in alphabetical order) Cooks Global Union Federation (GUF) and Stewards’, Harbour Board Workers’, www.itfglobal.org Marine Engineers’, Railway and Transport, An International Trade Union Federation www.global-union.org Seamen, Ship officers’, Stevedores’, Tally of 654 Unions representing 4.5 million The GUF is an international federation of a Clerks’ and Waterside Workers’. transport workers in 148 countries. dozen national and regional trade unions organised in specific industry sectors. Amalgamation ITF Seafarers’ and Dockers’ Section Most major unions are members of one or more global union federations, relevant These Maritime Unions worked The Seafarers’ and Dockers’ section to the sectors where they have their independently of each other, but for through their Fair Practices Committee is members, e.g. the ITF as a GUF member reasons including Government legislation, best known for their 54 year joint Flag of represents transport workers. rationalisation and “to enable a stronger Convenience (FOC) political and industrial Other federations in GUF include Building position to defend their interest” a steady campaign to determine a genuine link and Wood Workers’ International, amalgamation progress has ensued. between the real owner of a vessel and the flag the vessel flies. International Arts and Entertainment Solidarity Alliance, Education International, What is Flag of Convenience? International Federation of Chemical, Further advantage was achieved with Energy, Mine and General Workers’ solidarity and affiliation both locally FOC is where beneficial ownership and unions, International Federation of and internationally to like minded control of a vessel is found to lie elsewhere Journalists, International Metalworkers’ organisations. than the country of the flag the vessel is Federation, International Textile, Garment Please find below some Maritime Union of flying. and Leather Workers’ Federation, New Zealand (MUNZ) affiliates, associates The motivation for the Shipowner to International Union of Food, Agricultural, or strong solidarity bonds that are held abandon the flag and laws of their own Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco with other organisations. country for another reflects a business and Allied Workers’ Association, Public opportunity, not national responsibility. Service International, Union Network NZ Council of Trades Unions (NZCTU) For the seafarer it can mean crushed International, Industrial Workers of the exploitation, savage intimidation and life www.nzctu.org.nz World. and limb threatening neglect. The Trades’ Union Council was founded The ITF will declare a register FOC based in 1896 with seven affiliate unions International Trade Union Confederation on three main issues. (ITUC) being The Boilermakers’ Union, The (1) If the flag state does not enforce Operative Bootmakers’ Society, The www.ituc-csi.org international minimum social standards Operative Bakers’ Union, The Operative The ITUC is the world’s largest trade on its vessels, including respect for basic Tailors’ Society, The Tailoresses’ Union, union federation formed in 2006 but human and trade union rights, and the Wellington Typographical Society and NZ had its roots from 1920 through the right to collective bargaining with a bona Bookbinders’ and Paper-rulers’ Society. International Federation of Christian Trade fide trade union. With policy and name changes over the Unions which transformed into then the (2) If they do not enforce the International years the NZCTU website reports forty World Confederation of Labour in 1968. Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions. affiliate unions representing 350,000 It then merged with the International (3) If they do not enforce the International workers or 80% of the unionised work Confederation of Free Trade Unions Maritime Organisation (IMO) safety and force. to form the International Trade Union environment Conventions. MUNZ officials play an active part within Confederation. the NZCTU local affiliates Council.

44 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz VIEWPOINT

The ITUC has close relations with GUF and the Trade Union Advisory Committee to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), working together through the Global Unions Council. It also works closely with the ILO and maintains contacts with several other United Nations (UN) Specialised Agencies. The ITUC represents 170 million workers in 158 countries and territories and 316 national affiliates. NZ workers are affiliated to the ITUC via the NZCTU.

International Labour Organisation (ILO) www.ilo.org The ILO was founded in 1919, in the wake of the war, to pursue a vision that universal, lasting peace can be established only if it is based upon decent treatment of working people. It became the first specialised agency of the UN in 1946 and is the only tripartite National Distribution Union members picket in Auckland, 2009 (photo courtesy NDU) UN agency. It brings together 28 Governments, 14 of which are elected at the three yearly conferences, the 14 Workers and 14 Employers Groups elect their own representatives respectively. Australia plays a leading role in the ILO Missions to Seafarers As of March 2009 there were 159 registered as the MUA National Secretary Paddy www.missiontoseafarers.org unions in NZ with a total membership of Crumlin was elected Vice Chairperson of Formally the Seamen’s Mission, often 387,959. the Workers Group 10th Maritime Session called the Flying Angel, with ministers This union membership represents 17.9% of the International Labour Conference. to over 300 ports through Chaplains, lay of the total employed labour force, and This was in recognition of the Maritime staff and volunteers they provide a service 21.5% of wage/salary earners for that Union’s contribution to the historic of help and support, sermon notes and period. (Department of Labour 2009, www. “Seafarer’s Bill of Rights” also known as prayers, transport, international contact dol.govt.nz) the “ILO Superconvention” a convention calls to loved ones, hospital visits, foreign Roger Kerr of the Business Round Table that spans continents and oceans, exchange, a shop for toiletries, mail and a reported “only one worker in five now providing a comprehensive labour beer. belongs to a union in NZ, most want to be charter for the world’s 1.2 million or more Often it is the first point of contact at each treated as individuals rather than as parts seafarers. port for many international seafarers; of a collective lump of labour.” also it’s a place where their concerns of (NZ Business Roundtable 2004, www.nzbr. International Maritime Organisation (IMO) hardship are often raised. org.nz) The National Government’s future labour www.imo.org relations policy is likely to be influenced Founded in 1958 as the Inter- Employers Counter by such statistics and lobbying. Governmental Maritime Consultative The International Shipping Federation has The arm wrestle continues! Organisation renamed in 1982, the IMO consultative status within the ILO, IMO is mostly recognised by seafarers for their and UN; they did endorse the Seafarers’ Source: Above websites plus International Conventions of Safety of Bill of Rights (I’m sure an arm twist from www.paperspast.natlib.govt.nz life at Sea (SOLAS) and (MARPOL) oil, the ITF helped). www.thecommunityarchive.org.nz air, chemicals, goods in packaged form, Plus the International Chamber of www.Wikipedia.com www.dnzb.govt.nz sewage and garbage pollution. Shipping and International Maritime It also established the International Mobile Employers Committee effectively Satellite Organisation and the Global represent their members. Maritime Distress Safety System, and Locally the Employers Association remain later the International Convention on accustomed to their advantage and along Standards of Training, Certification and with the National Government continue to Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW95). undermine industrial relations. SOLAS safety, MARPOL pollution, STCW training and the Seafarers’ Bill of Rights are now the four pillars of a single International regulatory system for the global maritime industry.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 45 SPORTS C3 Basketball Tauranga

Vincent Haerewa of C3 in Port of Tauranga sent in photos and a short history of their basketball team from 2004–2009. Vincent says they have been playing Men’s Premier League Basketball in 2004, coming second that year, but winning every final up to 2009. The Maritimes did not have enough space to print all the photos but here is a selection.

List of Players (and years represented)

Vincent Haerewa (2004–2009) Brian Johnson (2004–2009) 2005: Only four in this photo played in 2004, including number 11 Murray Payne (now C3 stevedoring operations Murray Payne (2004–2008) manager) and Vincent Haerewa (wearing vest) now labour allocator, number 8 Brian Johnson, and number 15 Ezra John Pouwhare (2004–2008) Johnson who later left for Australia. Numbers 14, 6, 12 and kneeling player work elsewhere. Mark Jacob (2004–2005) In 2006 three more players joined the workforce, Jade Williams and Teeny Rayner (both GHE’s) and Quinton Haerewa who later on left to join the NZ Army. Ray Reweti (2004) Damon Tanatiu (2004) Daryl Jacob (2004) Keiaro Jacob (2004) John Miller (2004) Alex Pope (2004) Andre Henare (2004) James Lesley (2004) Darcy Rawiri (2004) Damian Bennett (2004) Ezra Johnson (2005–2009) Quinton Haerewa (2005) Andy MacKay (2005) Jade Williams (2006–2009) Teeny Rayner (2006–2008) Jared Thompson (2006–2008) Ryan Piddington (2006–2009) Gabe Aletenhufen (2006–2007) Kris Thompson (2006) Matt Kendrick (2006) 2008: First year playing in the C3 Ltd strip, new players to the team and work force are number 6 Jamie Rayner and Lee Fowler (2006) number 7 Aaron Samuels, who still works at C3 HQ in the IT Department. Eru Wills (2007–2009) 2007 was the last year we played in the Toll Owens strip, and another three joined the team and workforce, Kurt Ormsby, Jamie Rayner (2007–2009) Eru Wills and Isaac Smith. Aaron Samuels (2007–2008) Isaac Smith (2007) Kurt Ormsby (2007) Thomas Kiwi (2009) Bryce Hoete (2009) Kalem Saia (2009) Lawrence Cockrell (2009) Russell Ngatoko (2009) Duran Farell (2009) Federico Pasquali (2009)

2009: fifth year in a row. Another two players join the team and workforce. Middle row, third left is Bryce Hoete, and (absent) permanent Thomas Kiwi.

46 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz BRANCH CONTACTS

I was shipmates with Hugh for 3 and 1/2 Whangarei Mobile: 021 855121 years in the Pearl Kasper and then in Mc- Fax: 09 459 4972 Cullums Tow Boat and Barge Naumai and Address: PO Box 397, Whangarei Hazel Repton for many years in the 1960s. Email: [email protected] McCullum’s then were the only tow boat and barge outfit employing NZSU AB’s, Auckland Seafarers Phone: 09 3032 562 unlike Parrys and Julain who took anyone Fax: 09 3790 766 off the street. Mobile: 021 326261 Hugh sat and got his river masters ticket Address: PO Box 1840, Auckland while with McCullums with the idea of Email: [email protected] possibly getting a tow boat skippers job, Auckland Local 13 but the ferry in Whitianga came onto the Phone: 09 3034 652 market, so Hugh bought it and ran the Fax: 09 3096 851 ferry for many years. Mobile: 021 760887 After some time he found he was just Address: PO Box 2645, Auckland Email: [email protected] keeping his head above water financially, so applied to the Thames District Coun- Mount Maunganui cil to increase the fares. They originally Phone: 07 5755 668 knocked him back so Hugh took the ferry Fax: 07 5759 043 off the run and made a name by becom- Mobile: 0274 782308 Address: PO Box 5121, Mt. Maunganui Obituary: ing the only New Zealander to stage a Email: [email protected] one man strike. It didn’t last long, people Hugh Blain couldn’t get to work or kids to school, so Gisborne Local 38 the Council quickly capitulated. Mobile: 025 6499697 Address: 5 Murphy Road, Gisborne He lost the ferry during a bad storm when Barrow Email: [email protected] it broke its moorings and became wrecked. I think he used a fishing boat while he New Plymouth 5 June 1926 – had two new boats built in Auckland. The Mobile: 021 479269 smaller of the two he named Stella B after Address: PO Box 659, New Plymouth Email: [email protected] 4 November 2009 his wife. Hugh sold the ferries some years ago as he Napier was having great difficulty with his legs, Phone/Fax: 06 8358 622 having to resort to a walker recently. Mobile: 027 6175441 Address: PO Box 70, Napier I attended his farewell gathering in the Email: [email protected] afternoon of Wednesday 11 November when around twenty relatives and friends Wellington Seafarers boarded the Stella B ferry and took his Phone: 04 3859 288 ashes out in the Estuary he had plied back- Fax: 04 3848 766 Mobile: 0274 538222 wards and forwards in for so many years. Address: PO Box 27004, Wellington His ashes were cast into the water to the Email: [email protected] sound of Eight Bells being struck to signify the end of Hugh’s shift. Wellington Waterfront Phone: 04 8017 619 Another good shipmate from the old days Fax: 04 3848 766 has departed. Mobile: 021 606379 Contributed by Allan Phillips, Address: PO Box 2773, Wellington NZSU life member 974 Email: [email protected]

Nelson Fax: 03 5472104 Mobile: 027 6222691 Address: PO Box 5016, Nelson

Lyttelton Local 43 Phone: 03 3288 306 Fax: 03 3288 798 Mobile: 0274 329620 Address: PO Box 29, Lyttelton Email: [email protected]

Timaru Phone/Fax: 03 6843 364 Mobile: 021 2991091 www.facebook.com/maritimeunion Address: PO Box 813, Timaru

Port Chalmers Dunedin Local 10 Phone: 03 4728 052 Fax: 03 4727 492 Mobile: 0274 377601 Address: PO Box 44, Port Chalmers Email: [email protected]

Bluff Phone/Fax: 03 2128 189 Mobile: 027 4475317 Address: PO Box 5, Bluff Email: [email protected] www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 | 47 Maritime Union of New Zealand Timaru Branch Christmas Party and Old Timers’ Function Timaru Town and Country Club, Saturday 21 November 2009

48 | The Maritimes | Summer 2009/2010 www.munz.org.nz