The

Issue 31 • Spring 2010 MaritimesMagazine of the Maritime Union of New Zealand ISSN 1176-3418

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 1 TAX CHANGES GST hike hits family budget

Tax Justice Labour Unions: campaign petition announces no National’s tax takes off GST on fruit and changes bad for The campaign to take GST off all food is vege policy workers gaining momentum with a mass petition effort on 1 - 2 October netting thousands of The Labour Party has announced a $270 Unions have rejected the National signatures. million policy for removing Goods and Government’s tax changes that came into A petition by the Tax Justice campaign is Services Tax (GST) from fresh fruit and effect on 1 October 2010. calling for the removal of GST off all food, to vegetables. The Council of Trade Unions says the be replaced by a tax on financial speculation. GST has gone up to 15% from the start of changes are unfair and will hit low income Thousands of signatures have been collected October 2010. people hard, and will also fail to drag New over the past few months. Labour’s announced policy to take GST off Zealand out of recession or improve long Campaign spokesperson Victor Billot says fresh fruit and vegetables would provide term economic prospects. by putting up GST to 15%, the National welcome relief to many families from GST, CTU economist Bill Rosenberg says the Government is making life harder for most a tax that hits people harder the lower tax changes, including hiking GST to 15% families to benefit a wealthy minority. their incomes, says the Council of Trade and giving larger tax cuts to high income The New Zealand Herald reported in Unions. earners, will worsen New Zealand’s already September 2010 that economists estimate CTU Economist Bill Rosenberg says the damaging income inequalities. around half of all households will end the real problem still lies with low wages in Someone on $30,000 a year will get a $16.15 year worse off than they were a year earlier as New Zealand and income that is unfairly income tax cut that will largely be eaten up rising food prices, the GST increase and other distributed. by GST increases and rising living costs. one-off charges kick in. “GST should be phased out over time in Someone on $150,000 will receive $117.88 a Institute of Economic Research economist favour of alternatives such as a capital week in income tax cuts, leaving them with Shamubeel Eaqub expects food price inflation gains tax (exempting the primary home) a much greater income. to hit 10 per cent by year end, reflecting and a fairer income tax system that would He says income disparity has widened over higher commodity prices on world markets. help encourage productive investment and the last 25 years and tax cuts like these only Tax justice has become an international issue, not hit low income earners as hard.” widen the gap further. with a similar union-backed campaign in the Maori Party MP Rahui Katene’s members Research showed that the lower a UK, called “The Robin Hood Tax” aiming to bill to remove GST from healthy foods was household’s income, the harder GST hits it. put a miniscule levy ‘less than 0.05 percent’ rejected by Parliament earlier this year The CTU says the Government could on banking transactions, raising a huge after the Government refused to support it. raise revenue through a capital gains tax amount of money for social purposes. exempting the primary home - which The Tax Justice campaign in New Zealand most other developed countries have had is an initiative of the Alliance Party and for years - or an international financial Socialist Worker. The campaign is being transaction tax which would reduce the backed by the Maritime Union and hundreds New Zealand dollar’s vulnerability to of other New Zealanders have got involved speculative attacks. in the campaign, collecting signatures for Both of these taxes would be fairer to low the petition and spreading the word in their and middle income earners than the rise communities. For more information and petition forms see in GST and income tax cuts that unfairly www.nogstonfood.org benefit the already wealthy.

2 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz EDITORIAL Taxing times by Victor Billot Edition 31, Spring 2010

The big day has arrived and gone. National won the 2008 election Contents with the promise of free money, tax cuts for all, streets paved with Editorial 3 gold and the added bonus of catching up with Australia. General Secretary’s Report 4 The tax cuts have arrived and life has indeed become a lot more Update from National President 6 comfortable - more comfortable for someone on John Key’s Oyang 70 sinking 7 Fairness at work 8 income level, who will receive hundreds of extra dollars a week. Canterbury earthquake 10 Nice for some. ITF Congress Mexico 12 Unfortunately for the average working family their “tax cut” will News 14 Fairness at work page 8 largely be gobbled up by the “tax grab” as National’s 15% GST Uranium shipments 15 rate chomps into the weekly budget. The future of NZ ports 16 As they say, there is no free lunch. The money for the millionaire’s Merchant Navy Day 17 tax cuts has to come from somewhere. Schools, hospitals, ITF Report 18 infrastructure, public services, all paid collectively by taxes, all 1890 Maritime Strike 20 Stevedoring Conference 22 under threat. Campaign photos 24 For most people, the Key tax cuts are a mirage for wishful Port roundups 26 thinkers, people taking a punt on a bet they can’t win. The few Bulk and General Conference 43 who really benefit from National’s tax cuts are a small minority of Leaders of the maritime union 44 the already well off. Free and open source software 46 This is just another hit working people have been taking. Letters 47 For the last thirty years at least, organized labour has been on the back foot. The share of wealth that workers earn has been ‘The Maritimes’ is published quarterly by the Maritime Union of New Zealand. shrinking. The welfare of the majority has been tossed aside for ITF Mexico Congress page 12 the privilege of the few. ISSN 1176-3418 We’ve been privatised, corporatised, commercialised, outsourced, casualised, demoralised and blinded by a wall of propaganda. National Office: Contact the Unemployment was not so long ago rightly seen as an PO Box 27004 Maritime Union unacceptable waste of human potential and a great evil. Wellington Now no one even seems to comment about the fact we have New Zealand National Office tens of thousands of working people joining the ranks of the Telephone: 04 3850 792 Telephone: 04 3850 792 Fax: 04 3848 766 unemployed since John Key arrived in town. Except to blame the Fax: 04 3848 766 Email: [email protected] unemployed for their situation, for the fact that capitalism cannot Address: PO Box 27004, Wellington Web: www.munz.org.nz provide jobs for all. Office administrator: Ramesh Pathmanathan Workers in many countries are drawing a line in the sand and Email: [email protected] Editor: refusing to have their rights and lives downgraded and disrupted Victor Billot General Secretary: Joe Fleetwood to prop up a corrupt system that has been called a “plutocracy” – Mobile: 021 482219 Direct dial: 04 8017 614 or Government by a powerful, rich elite. Fax: 09 9251125 Mobile: 021 364649 The union movement in New Zealand is moving to stop the Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mail: PO Box 339, Dunedin attacks on workers rights and employment protections by the New Zealand National Government. National President: Phil Adams On 20 October, unions will be moving our campaign up a gear Direct dial: 03 4728 052 Editorial Board: around the nation. Mobile: 0274 377601 Joe Fleetwood, Phil Adams, Garry Parsloe Email: [email protected] It’s been a long time since unions went on the offensive, in many and Ray Fife ways it’s been too long. National Vice President: Garry Parsloe The Maritime Union has the history, the mana and the reputation Deadline for all Port reports, submissions, Direct dial: 09 3032 562 as a union that fights from the front. Now is the time to take photos and letters: Mobile: 021 326261 1 November 2010 for next edition measure of that claim. Email: [email protected] Are we going to play our part? Cover photo: Assistant General Secretary: Ray Fife From Dunedin Workers Rights rally, 24 Direct dial: 03 2128189 July 2010, courtesy of the Otago Daily Mobile: 0274 475317 Times Email: [email protected] For more on-line photos, see ITF Inspector: Grahame MacLaren www.flickr.com/maritimeunion Direct dial: 04 8017 613 Mobile: 021 2921782 Thanks to all our photographers including Email: [email protected] Harry Holland, Grahame MacLaren, Dave Phillipps, Bill Connelly, John Darroch, Communications Officer: Victor Billot Shaun Scott, Mike Will, Garry Parsloe, Mobile: 021 482219 Terry Knight, Paul Baggott, Joe Carr and Fax: 09 9251125 others Address: PO Box 339, Dunedin Email: [email protected]

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 3 GENERAL SECRETARY’S REPORT The fightback against National’s attack on workers

Many working class people fall for the line that if they work hard and keep their head down “they” will be OK, and too bad for anyone else. However in the modern global economy, anyone can lose their job, have their wages and conditions reduced, be injured or killed on the job, fall ill, get into financial stress, or be the victim of circumstances outside their control. It doesn’t matter if you’re white collar, blue collar or wear a t-shirt to work; we live in a system that simply does not care about workers. All we are is a means to an end – making endless amounts of profit for the small minority who own everything. (Most maritime workers enjoy good superannuation schemes which means that we own a little bit too and nothing wrong with that. But at the end of the day, we live by working, not by shareholder profits.) Even in a strong union like ours there is always a tendency to let individualism by General Secretary Joe Fleetwood creep in, otherwise known as “looking after number one.” The friendly smile has disappeared and make so much money it’s like Christmas Remember the strength of the working the true face of the National Government every day, and then somehow a little class is in our collective organization – has been revealed. John Key has launched bit will trickle down to the 80% of the this is what has delivered the wages and part one of a wide ranging attack on your population who go to work every day to conditions we enjoy today. Organized jobs, wages and conditions. make it happen. labour – Our Union. The Maritime Union is part of the However, the big problem we have is not The fight is just beginning. On 20 October fightback against these attacks. In August the National Government. the Maritime Union will be part of a we joined protest rallies throughout New The big problem is that enough workers national day of action where workers will Zealand to show our opposition to what believe them. take to the streets to make the National the Government is trying to do. Proud to Our problem is the apathy or even Government listen to us and change be working class. misguided support of working class the path they are on. Let’s be part of The National Government wants to make people for those who do not have our best the fightback because the return of the it easier for workers to be sacked through interests at heart, for example, voting for Employment Contracts Act is just round extending the 90 day fire at will law to all right wing anti-worker politicians like the corner if we don’t. workplaces. National are going to make John Key on the basis he seems like a good Dare to Fight, Dare to struggle – If you it harder for unions like MUNZ to get bloke. Wrong. don’t fight you lose. onto worksites to talk to workers. They In this world it can sometimes seem as if are even going to let the boss demand a we depend on a small group of CEOs and ITF – Mexico medical certificate if you are off work sick finance whizzes to keep the world turning. Every four years global transport unions for one day. That’s rubbish. We need to remind meet at the International Transport What’s it all about? Does John Key and the ourselves that without the working class, Workers Federation Congress. In August, National Government not like workers? who produce the wealth but are denied the I along with Garry Parsloe, Mike Clark No they don’t. full value of our labour, nothing would get and Marion Leslie attended the 2010 ITF Like most things it comes down in the end done. Congress in Mexico City. to money, and yes, workers money has to The wheels would stop turning. There This was a massive event, with more than be used to fix their blunders. would be no money, no corporate bonuses, 1600 participants from 370 trade unions It’s all about reducing the money (and no politician’s perks, no share market, and in 112 countries. Workers represented conditions) workers get and transferring no nothing. Without workers John Key included Dockers, seafarers, fisheries, this money to the already rich. would not have a condominium in Hawaii, aviation, rail, inland navigation, road You see John Key and his friends don’t he would have no one to fly the plane to transport and tourism. have enough money. Nothing is ever get him there, and without workers there This Congress gave us the opportunity to enough for them. So they have to get more would not even be an Hawaiian beach be part of the international union network money by making things tougher for shirt for him to wear. which has come to our support in previous workers who earn in a month what they So why do things for workers seem to be disputes. earn in a day. getting worse and things for John Key and The way they sell it to us is that if we let company are always getting better? the already wealthy and big corporations

4 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz GENERAL SECRETARY’S REPORT

One major event at the Congress was the National Executive election of Maritime Union of Australia The National Executive meeting will National Secretary Paddy Crumlin as ITF be held on 1–2 November 2010 at the Contributions President. Paddy has been a good friend of National Office followed by the committee our Union and we fully supported his bid of management meeting to clarify and for this job. This is a major achievement for finalise any outstanding issues from welcome. workers in our part of the world, to have National Executive. one of our own elected to leadership of the transport workers of the world. Merchant Navy Day We look forward to working with Paddy and the ITF in the future, and offer him Merchant seamen have finally been All members are our congratulations. awarded the recognition they deserve, Mexico has been in the news lately with with the first official celebration of welcome to send in some big industrial disputes involving Merchant Navy Day on 3 September. miners who we are allied with through It has been a long hard slog in getting contributions to The the international mining and maritime the Government to recognise and initiative, so it was an interesting place to acknowledge the many merchant seafarers Maritimes. end up. that tragically lost their lives at sea in the A full report is included later in this wars. We need photos, edition of the Maritimes. I would like to acknowledge the many tireless hours and years Kathy Whelan put letters, articles, Sinking of the Oyang 70 in working behind the scenes to achieve 3 September as Merchant Navy Day along comments and Another maritime disaster has occurred with Ian Dymock, Dave Morgan and with the sinking of the factory trawler others. Congratulations comrades we now anything else you Oyang 70. Six lives lost in dubious have recognition of our contribution. circumstances in the cold and unforgiving can think of. Southern Ocean. Health and Safety The authorities are investigating the sinking, but it could be years till any This is a very important issue on the results are known. Statements by the coal face and paramount to all Maritime If there is something master and crew of the Atlantis Amaltal, workers and the working class. We must the New Zealand fishing trawler that be vigilant on the job because strong you’d like to see in rescued the survivors, indicate that and enforced health and safety rules and conditions and safety procedures aboard regulations are why we all go home at the The Maritimes, send the Oyang 70 were far below an acceptable end of a days work. standard. It’s our right to be safe in our place of it to the Editor: The Maritime Union is calling on the work as we work in one of the most Department of Labour and Maritime New dangerous industries in the world, the Zealand to investigate these claims. Maritime Industry. Too many of us die on the job and leave many loved ones behind, Mail this must stop. PO Box 27004, Wellington, New Zealand

Email [email protected] Fax (09) 9251125

Global solidarity at the ITF 42nd Congress, Mexico City, August 2010, from left MUA National Vice President and West Australia State Secretary Chris Cain, MUNZ Wellington Seafarers’ Branch Secretary Mike Clark, General Secretary Joe Fleetwood, and Wellington Seafarers Executive member Marion Leslie

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 5 NATIONAL PRESIDENT REPORT No worker should lose their life on the job

The special close relationship we have 1890, 1913 and 1951 with our brothers and sisters in the MUA The Maritime Union is marking the 120th means that we feel this loss as we would anniversary of the first major industrial feel it for one of our own members. dispute in New Zealand, the great strike of We offer our sincere condolences and 1890 that was led by the Maritime Council solidarity to the family, friends, workmates that included seafarers, waterside workers and “union family” of these workers and and miners. we applaud the stance taken by the MUA A history seminar is being held in in stopping work and demanding action Auckland to commemorate the event, and on job safety. this issue of the Maritimes features the One of the big concerns we have in New first part of a special two part feature on Zealand with the National Party “fire at the 1890 maritime strike, which is taken will” laws that they want to now apply from the forthcoming history of the New to all workers is the threat to health and Zealand Seafarers Union. safety. Next year 2011 is the 60th anniversary of If a young or inexperienced worker is the 1951 waterfront lockout, and in 2013 afraid they might lose their job in the first we are coming up to the centennial of the 90 days of their employment if they “cause 1913 maritime strike. problems” then that could lead to serious These events forged the Maritime Union injury or death. we have today and we look forward to At the current time of high unemployment, remembering those who came before us workers are desperate to hold on to jobs. and the legacy they left which we enjoy by National President Phil Adams This could mean staying quiet about today. dangerous or unsafe work practices if they Health and safety are worried they could be given the sack, no reason required. The issue of health and safety has been This Government wants to create a culture brought home to us once more. of fearful workers and that is why the Following the deaths of foreign crew Maritime Union is urging all our members members aboard the TPC Wellington to protest against their new workplace docked at Whangarei earlier this year, laws. New Zealand hit the international news We do not want to live in a New Zealand in August with the sinking of the factory where workers lives are endangered by “We do not want trawler Oyang 70 in the Southern Ocean, an irresponsible Government and hungry hundreds of miles off its last port of call, employers. to live in a New Dunedin. Six lives of overseas crew were lost. Local body elections Zealand where It was only due to a fortunate combination As maritime workers we have a very real of relatively calm conditions and the interest in ports around New Zealand, presence of a well equipped New Zealand workers lives are most of which are fully or majority owned vessel nearby, that was able to pick up by local Government, that is by our the surviving crew, that a much worse endangered by regional, district and city councils through outcome was avoided. their business arms. We also share the sorrow and anger of our an irresponsible We want ports to remain in local brothers and sisters in Australia following ownership and provide a good return to a series of deaths on the Australian Government local people. waterfront. As we have seen in past years there is Three Australian waterfront workers, and hungry pressure coming on to privatize ports and all members of the Maritime Union of sell them off to foreign owners. Australia, have lost their lives on the job That is why it is very important that we employers” this year through workplace accidents. vote for local government candidates Nick Fanas of Port Botany was killed in who support local ownership of our March, 31 year old Brad Gray died at infrastructure. Brisbane in February leaving behind a This is especially important in the new wife and a 17 month year old son and in Auckland “super city” where it is obvious a third tragedy, Stephen Piper (41) was things are being lined up to privatize killed in a work accident on Appleton assets and outsource jobs. Dock in Melbourne on 14 July leaving behind a wife and children.

6 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz NEWS Petition against Oyang 70 sinking piracy

In the early morning darkness on 18 Six crew lost their lives, and the bodies An action group representing stakeholders August 2010, the Oyang 70 was working in of three, including the Master, were not from the entire shipping industry, from the freezing waters of the Southern Ocean, recovered and presumed to have gone crews to owners, presented a petition 800 kilometres south east of Dunedin. It down with the ship. signed by nearly a million (920,000) people was a large factory trawler, over 80 metres Disturbing information was revealed when to the International Maritime Organization in length, crewed by Koreans, Indonesians, survivors spoke to crew of the Amaltal and governments worldwide calling for Filipinos and Chinese, and had worked in Atlantis. real action to end Somali piracy. New Zealand waters and the surrounding Surviving crew claimed they had only The handover was made on UN- ocean for many years. received $300 a trip, for a month’s worth of designated World Maritime Day in A net of fish – described later by crew as work, and the only food on board was fish September. overweight – was pulled onto the vessel. they caught. At a time when 354 seafarers and 16 The bulk caused the ship to start listing to At 38 years of age the Oyang 70 was one of ships are being held hostage by pirates the alarm of the workers. But according to the oldest fishing vessels in New Zealand in Somalia, the campaign calls on eyewitness reports, the Master insisted the waters. governments to dedicate significant net be pulled in. The sinking comes just a few months after resources and work to find real solutions Why he made that decision is unknown, two overseas crew members died from to the growing piracy problem, take but whatever the reason, the end came asphyxiation aboard the bulk carrier TPC immediate steps to secure the release and quickly. Wellington in the Port of Whangarei in safe return of kidnapped seafarers to their Survivors later told rescuers the Oyang May 2010. families, and work within the international 70 lent over to one side, with the factory Maritime Union General Secretary Joe community to secure a stable and peaceful area and the engine room quickly taking Fleetwood says the Union has encountered future for Somalia and its people. on water. There were no alarms and no ongoing problems experienced by overseas lighting. crew on merchant and fishing vessels, Within 10 minutes the ship was under the including health and safety problems. water and many of the crew floundered in Oyang 70 is owned by Sajo Oyang Drunk captain the freezing waters of the Southern Ocean Corporation, a company incorporated in before pulling themselves into life rafts. Korea, and is registered on the Korean The cargo ship Tasman Pathfinder was Several factors came into play which saved Shipping Registry and flies the Korean forced to stay berthed in Wellington the lives of the crew who had made it flag. Harbour after its master was found too off the vessel. Conditions were cold and Oyang 70 operated in New Zealand waters drunk to set sail. foggy, but calm. since the 1980s. It was convicted of spilling The ship was enroute from Timaru to There were a number of nearby fishing oil in Nelson harbour last year. Tauranga in August. trawlers which responded to a last minute It was chartered by Southern Storm (2007) Maritime New Zealand cancelled the call for help. Ltd who have offices in Christchurch. sailing after the ship’s master was found One of those vessels, the Amaltal Atlantis, heavily intoxicated by the local pilot, who was a well equipped and New Zealand was to take the ship out of the harbour. crewed trawler which rescued many of the The Korean master was subsequently survivors and would later sail them back stood down. to safety in Lyttelton. Wellington harbourmaster Mike Pryce said the master was extremely drunk. “I understand he was conscious but not well.” Maritime New Zealand contacted the ship’s owner and it voluntarily tied the ship up in Wellington until a replacement master could be flown out from Japan. However, the ship’s owner contacted the authority the next day to see if the ship could sail to Tauranga if the existing master could demonstrate he was fit for duty. “We agreed on that condition and again visited the vessel and established the master was fit for that duty. He then safely took the vessel to Tauranga,” said a Maritime New Zealand spokesperson. A replacement master was then flown out to meet the ship. Maritime New Zealand was not involved in any sort of disciplinary action. That would be left to the ship’s owners. The 177-metre cargo ship is owned by the marine transport company of Osaka Asahi Kaiun, of Japan. Fishing trawlers search for survivors in the aftermath of the sinking of the Oyang 70 www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 7 FAIRNESS AT WORK

Unions need to get back into campaigning mode and lead a sustained fightback. The challenge we face is that the “me Workers rally for first” ideas of National have embedded themselves widely amongst people. Even working class people often subscribe to these ideas. The goal must be to spread fairness at work union ideas and working class principles – solidarity (sticking together), equality and Workers throughout New Zealand Touring American singer songwriter democracy. have been making their opposition to David Rovics gave an impromptu show This campaign is an important one to stop Government employment law changes for the crowd, playing some topical attacks on workers rights. known. political songs and doing a stirring version The National Government and employers On the weekend of 21-22 August, rallies of the classic working class anthem will be watching closely to gauge the type were held in the four main centres, L’Internationale. of resistance they face. organized by the Council of Trade Unions, One feature of all the rallies was the It has been revealed that the push for local Union affiliates and supporters. speakers who were largely working people many of these changes came from the far These have been some of the biggest who gave their views and stories on what right ACT Party, a minor coalition partner mobilizations of union members in New the National Government is doing. with the National Government. Zealand since the 1990s. At all of these events, the Maritime Union ACT have mainly been in the news lately In Auckland, hundreds of workers and of New Zealand members have been because of their internal fights. supporters gathered at QE2 Square at present. Although we are a small union in There is probably some political game the bottom of Queen Street in a colourful numbers, our members have turned out playing going on here. If John Key’s display from many unions and groups. around the country, some travelling long Government get these law changes 1500 Wellington workers came together in distances, such as the Bluff delegates who through without a fight, they’ll take the Civic Square. came up for the Dunedin rally. credit. But if the public turn against then, About 1000 Canterbury workers protested The next big step in the campaign is a they’ll back off, just like they did on in Christchurch’s Cathedral Square. national day of action on Wednesday 20 mining in national parks. The Dunedin event took place the October. This campaign is also important to build a following day, Sunday 22 August, due The reality is that to get the National stronger and confident union movement. to the main street being booked out by a Government to take notice, the Union The Maritime Union of New Zealand graduation parade for University students. campaign needs to be ramped up and urges all members to make an effort to 500 workers and families marched through bigger numbers. attend any campaign events especially the 20 October national day of action. the North End of the city along George For more information, see www.fairness.org.nz Street, and rallied in the Octagon which was closed to traffic.

Photo by Shaun Scott

8 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz FAIRNESS AT WORK

Early mediation without representation. Our rights under attack This could hugely disadvantage workers. Holidays under threat On 16 August 2010 the National Making it harder for workers to see their The main change to the Holidays Act is to Union. Government introduced two new Bills allow sale of the fourth week of statutory to Parliament to drastically change Your freedom to meet with your union annual leave. employment law in New Zealand. is a basic democratic right. But now It has taken us 30 years to catch up with If passed the changes will take away the Government says unions need the Australia to get 4 weeks leave and already workers’ rights, remove protections, cut employer’s permission before they can it’s for sale. pay, reduce holidays and diminish access come to your workplace. Another change to the Holidays Act is to sick leave. the inclusion of a different calculation for Unions are committed to stopping these Allowing the boss to directly communicate leave. changes and building a New Zealand with union members during bargaining. where we all enjoy fair rights at work, A sick joke decent wages and access to strong public In the past this has meant employers write services. to workers at their home prior to a vote Employers will be able to ask for proof of Employment Relations changes are a in bargaining and threaten all sorts of sickness or injury even if you are off for threat to workers consequences if they do not agree with the just one day. The main threats to workers in the changes employer position. This amounts to a charter to harass to the Employment Relations Act and workers. Holidays Act are: Removing reinstatement as a primary Employers can already demand a medical remedy. certificate for absence of one day provided Extending the 90 day trial to all employers. This allows employers to sack someone in they have reasonable grounds - this the knowledge that, even if they are found simply allows them to demand one on This is where the right to appeal against to have unfairly dismissed the worker, unreasonable grounds. unfair dismissal is removed for all workers they are extremely unlikely to have to re- But it also overlooks the current in the first 90 days of starting a new job. employ them. They will therefore be more requirements that say that if an employer You can get sacked and no reason is likely to dismiss and pay the monetary has reasonable grounds for believing a required. price if necessary. worker’s sickness (or illness of their child) is not genuine, the employer can already Change the justification for any action by require a doctors certificate for one or two an employer including dismissal. days. The simple change from the word “would” to “could” means that the range of circumstances where a dismissal is deemed to be justified is greatly expanded.

National Day of Action for Workers’ Rights Wednesday 20 October 2010 www.fairness.org.nz www.munz.org.nz www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 9 CANTERBURY EARTHQUAKE

Leaning tower of Lyttelton: a lighthouse on the Port of Lyttelton wharves shows that slumping the occurred following the major earthquake (photo by Michael Will) Quake rattles Lyttelton but port stays open

The most damaging earthquake to hit There has been some discussion about the Les Wells says the aftershocks have New Zealand in almost eighty years has best approach for workers. affected many people badly, and in some left Christchurch and the nearby Port of Lyttelton uses three cranes and more than ways they were worse than the initial Lyttelon reeling. 20 straddle cranes, and some workers quake for peoples nerves. However maritime workers are playing located in these vehicles more than A number of workers and their families a major role in getting supplies and 18 metres high have been shaken by had suffered bad damage to their houses. materials into the area. aftershocks. The port has suffered cracking on wharves The 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck at Workers could decide for themselves and buildings, with work continuing in 4:35 am on Saturday 4 September 2010. whether to work on the cranes given some restricted areas, as some of the port is off Damage to port infrastructure from the people were obviously shaken, says Les limit to heavy machinery. quakes has been estimated by the Lyttelton Wells. After the initial period, work has picked Port Company at up to $50 million, but the “They’re keeping the place ticking over. up, with the possibility that there will port has stayed open. There’s a lot of people in different stages be more cargo coming through the Conditions at the port are stable with coal of shock I think. I think they’ve handled port during the rebuilding period for and container ships being loaded. themselves exceptionally well, because Christchurch. There has been slumpage reported, after some of those shakes they’re asking There had already been heavy machinery including around the oil tank farm you to go up 60 feet and drive a crane.” coming into the port on car vessels. reclamation area, but this did not pose a He says he has suggested that the Port Pacifica Shipping has seen cargo surge on risk to fuel storage, according to the Port Company stop any third shifts in the event its coastal freighters, following the quake Company. of more severe aftershocks. and a major slip that closed the main road Maritime Union Lyttelton Branch Secretary There have already been hundreds and rail corridor north near Kaikoura. Les Wells says there is still a lot of concern of aftershocks ranging from strong and insecurity amongst port workers and movements to small tremors in the weeks their families. following the quake.

10 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz CANTERBURY EARTHQUAKE Kaikoura slip shows the “Seaquake” importance of coastal experienced shipping by Lyttelton

Coastal shipping is proving its worth We no longer have the coastal shipping seafarers in the aftermath of the Christchurch capability to deal with the problem.” earthquake. Due to New Zealand’s geography, reliance Seafarer Mike Will arrived into Lyttelton The demand for supplies from the north on land based transport modes running on the Reflect Resolution on the evening of was badly disrupted when a major down narrow and easily disrupted Thursday 2 September, along with the rest landslip blocked the main road and rail transport corridors was a dangerous of the crew that included ten other MUNZ corridor near Kaikoura. weakness. members. Massive quantities of goods were able to The Christchurch - Picton road and rail The ship was docking for repairs and be shipped to the Port of Lyttelton, with link was the only convenient land route laying up at the Pacifica Berth to prepare Pacifica coastal vessels carrying more from North Island to the majority of the for dry dock. than 2000 TEU containers for Canterbury South Island’s cities and economic hubs. On the night of the quake, Mike had just retail, manufacturing and construction Mr Fleetwood says if there was a fleet finished the 12-4am watch as Motorman. businesses in the days after the quake of New Zealand vessels available, they He had just “sat down for a cuppa” when alone. would be able to quickly respond to such a he says it “felt like the main engines start Big cargoes are expected to continue on for situation if required, either for emergency up and start to go faster and faster.” the foreseeable future. relief or simply to ensure the supply chain The ship shook violently, and Mike with The situation shows how the rundown was not broken. There are only a very some other crew members ran to the side of New Zealand coastal shipping by bad small number of New Zealand freight of the ship. Government policies is threatening New vessels working on the coastal trade. He witnessed the water or the wharf rising Zealand’s capability to deal with the Most coastal cargo is now dominated and falling up to a metre, then it stopped social and economic fallout from natural by overseas vessels which work to tight after what he thinks was half a minute. disasters. fixed international schedules based on the “The whole of Lyttelton was blacked out Maritime Union General Secretary Joe interests of their owners, rather than any with no power and total silence.” Fleetwood says the neglect of coastal local concerns. Mike says the best way to describe the shipping has led to a “blind spot” in New Mr Fleetwood says that the concerns sensation “is when a ship hits a massive Zealand’s transport mix. about a Wellington earthquake were still wave and just stops and shudders.” “We’re an island nation dependent extremely valid. After getting some sleep, Mike awoke to on shipping that has allowed its own “If we look at New Zealand’s capital, it fellow crew members urging me to go shipping capability to vanish due to bad is totally dependent on a couple of access home as it was pretty bad. policies, and we are seeing now why this is routes, and if these were blocked, shipping He visited his 89 year old grandfather, a a bad idea.” might provide the only lifeline.” former seafarer and fisherman, who was He says the Maritime Union has argued The Maritime Union was calling on the upset, but who had recovered his nerves for many years that over reliance on land Government to remove policies which by the next day. transport and especially trucking was disadvantaged New Zealand shipping “Driving home was a bit more scary as big short-sighted. and included the “blue highway” as a key cracks had formed in the road . . . people “Unfortunately we have had little progress element of the transport mix. were just walking around in amazement.” and the current Government is only In Mike’s neighbourhood there was interested in heavy trucking. flooding, walls down, and roads closed. Watching the news started to bring home the magnitude of what had happened. Some of Lyttelton’s most historic buildings have been badly damaged. As a “born and bred” local, Mike says it Port merger suffers quake damage was tough to see local icons such as the The Time ball Station, The Pump House The proposed merger between Port Otago Lyttelton says the earthquake has meant at the Dry dock, and Empire Hotel in and Port of Lyttelton has been put on the company has to review its short disrepair. ice in the aftermath of the Canterbury and long term asset management and He says Maritime Union members earthquake. development plans. have played a big part of keeping the The Board of Lyttelton Port Company “Given this situation, it is only fair and economy of Christchurch going - after the Limited (LPC) informed Port Otago prudent to cease the merger negotiations earthquake, with the port continuing to Limited (POL) in September that it was in order to allow the full resources of LPC operate. not in a position to continue merger to focus on both running the port and MUNZ member Steve Burke, one of the negotiations. undertaking the recovery and rebuild Stewards on the Spirit of Endurance, made The Boards have consequently project,” said a LPC spokesperson. the front page of the Press as one of the “reluctantly agreed to abandon merger heroes for helping others in need. discussions”, according to a statement. Mike says it will take a long time for things to return to normal, but one of the few good things to come out of the event is that it will create jobs for the rebuilding process. www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 11 ITF Mexico Congress unites global transport workers by Joe Fleetwood Outgoing ITF President Randall Howard a book on shady deals behind moves to General Secretary said the ITF would not tolerate blatant privatise Mexico’s state-owned Pemex The 42nd Congress of the International violations of human and trade union rights petroleum company. Transport Workers Federation (ITF) took anywhere in the world. place in Mexico City in August 2010. “Murders of trade unionists in Colombia Strong Unions – Sustainable Transport are commonplace. In Costa Rica ITF This was the largest ever meeting of the The theme of the Congress was “Strong dockers face a government takeover. organization which represents transport Unions – Sustainable Transport”. In Mexico, many yellow unions sign workers from across the globe. The ITF stated that the challenge of ‘protection agreements’ intended to More than 1,300 participants from nearly climate change “points to the need for an collude with the employer but not to 370 trade unions in 112 countries attended economic model based on sustainability protect the workers.” the ITF’s first ever Congress in Latin and social solidarity, not neoliberalism.” The host union in Mexico City was the America. Public transport has to play a central role ATM union (Alianza de Tranviarios de Among those delegates were four in greening the global economy. Equally, Mexico) representing bus, tram and rail representatives from the Maritime Union a regulated fisheries industry is vital for workers. of New Zealand. These were myself food security. He told the Conference “unfortunately General Secretary Joe Fleetwood, along Privatization, liberalization and for Mexicans, currently we are living with National Vice President Garry deregulation were putting unions on the in a period of extreme difficulty for the Parsloe, Wellington Seafarers Branch defensive, with employers casualizing working class, under an ultra-right wing Secretary Mike Clark and Wellington jobs, outsourcing work and transferring fraudulent government which aims to Seafarers Branch executive member work offshore. eliminate social and union activities, Marion Leslie. The global economic crisis and attacks by drastically reducing social, human, labour right wing Governments were also threats and union rights.” Workers face similar problems to workers. Guest speakers at the trade union rights Other topics on the agenda were seafarers’ The first day of the main Congress symposium that evening included Ana rights, the HIV AIDs epidemic which is attended by us, was Friday 6 August. Lilia Perez, one of Mexico’s leading hitting many developing countries hard, Following registration there were investigative reporters. and the attacks on aviation workers discussions of the struggle of Mexican She has recently looked into the by powerful employers such as British unions with a hostile Government allied to exploitation of oil workers in the Gulf of Airways. big business interests. Mexico’s offshore fields, and has published

ITF Congress delegates and Mexican workers rally in support of workers rights, Mexico City, 12 August 2010 (photo courtesy of ITF)

12 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz COMMENTITF

Seafarers Bill of Rights – Dockers’ Health standing FOC campaign and of making it Paddy Crumlin elected ITF President and Safety even more effective. The final day of the Congress on Thursday The Congress continued over the 12 August was a big one. weekend with separate Dockers’ Section Global issues National Secretary of the MUA Paddy and Seafarers’s Section Conferences on Monday 9 August featured discussion on Crumlin was elected the new ITF Saturday 7 August. many transport and working class topics. president. Dockers’ (waterfront) unions are calling A delegation from the ITF Congress The Maritime Union of New Zealand had for a co-ordinated response to health and met with the Mexican Government to supported Paddy’s candidacy and it was safety concerns in the industry. discuss ITF concerns about human rights great to see the turnout of MUA members Dockers’ section Chair Paddy Crumlin violations and the lack of a proper health who had come up to Mexico in support. of the MUA reported that there had been and safety regime in the country’s offshore The result will be a great boost for three deaths on the docks in the past six oil and gas sector. Australasian unions, and MUNZ believes months in Australia. A Women Transport Workers’ Conference Paddy’s leadership will be good for “Whichever employer it is, we should looked at the impact of the financial transport workers globally. respond in the global movement and show crisis on women, who were often in the The ITF president’s task is to help hold that we won’t tolerate this. We must act as most precarious jobs and suffered from the organisation to account between one.” casualization and unemployment. congresses, which set its policy for the “There should be comprehensive following four years. standards in occupational health and We have the potential strength: let’s use it Paddy Crumlin is the twenty-second safety and minimum standards of person to take on the post. dockworkers. Global network terminal The ITF has a great responsibility in its role Crumlin said: “I’m excited to be able operators must have minimum standards to advance the cause of transport workers to take on this new role and play my in all their operations worldwide.” and the international working class. part in moving the work of the ITF, its The seafarers’ section conference on The discussion at the Congress on Tuesday hundreds of affiliated unions and their Friday was told that the Maritime Labour 10 August featured the adoption of the millions of members forward through Convention (MLC) was on course for new ITF strategy. This covers several the implementation of a comprehensive ratification. themes, including defending basic union organising programme focused on trade Cleo Doumbia-Henry of the International rights, addressing casualisation and union regeneration and revitalisation.” Labour Organization reported that 10 outsourcing, fighting deregulation and The Congress concluded with a massive countries had so far agreed to ratify the liberalisation and meeting the challenge of march to support Mexican workers rights. 2006 convention, which is known as a climate change. “bill of rights” for the world’s 1.2 million Transport trade unions have great seafarers. potential industrial strength, but we The MLC consolidates and updates more have to organise and address changes in than 65 international labour standards for transport and politics. seafarers adopted over the previous 80 ITF Assistant General Secretary Stuart “Transport trade years. Howard said the two basic functions of In order to come into force, the MLC our industry is to move goods around and has to be ratified by at least 30 countries to move people around. unions have representing one third of the world’s “However much there is a global financial gross tonnage. So far, 10 had done so, said crisis, global production still relies on great potential Doumbia-Henry, accounting for 46 per components and parts and finished goods cent of world tonnage. being moved around the world along industrial global supply chains and distribution Flag of convenience policy updated networks.” strength, but we Unions have to build international A joint meeting of dockers and seafarers’ networks to challenge multinational have to organise representatives on Sunday 8 August voted corporations and attacks on public to accept an overhaul of the ITF’s flag of services. convenience (FOC) policy in its first major One of the themes to emerge from the and address update since 1998. debate was that the notion that unions It will be known as the Mexico City Policy. should not rely on social democratic changes in ITF maritime coordinator Steve Cotton political parties to deliver their objectives, said the new policy would continue to nor should they fund such parties that do transport and establish closer relationships between not act in the interests of union members. seafarers and dockers and their unions and These points were made by Edson Martins politics” develop the methods that could be used to Areias of CONTTMAF (Brazil), Bob Crow advance their interests. of RMT(Great Britain), Roger Toussaint of “The Mexico City Policy begins to the TWUA (US) and Niek Stam of the FNV address long-standing concerns about Bondgenoten. non-domiciled seafarers. It includes an Stam deplored the way that many social understanding that the ITF’s engagement democratic parties had adopted neoliberal with national flag vessels is in partnership policies. and in consultation with unions in those “We have to start teaching our members countries and reflects their concerns about what is left and what is right,” he said. protecting their own members.” “Maybe then they will realise what is The policy drew on recent discussions on going on when 50 per cent of the actions the ITF’s organising strategy with the aim of these parties are against the interests of of building on the successes of the long trade unionists.”

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 13 GLOBAL SOLIDARITY

Maritime Union of New Zealand General Secretary Joe Fleetwood speaks to diplomatic officials at the Mexican Embassy in Wellington as part of a delegation of New Zealand unions concerned at the situation of the Mexican miners union (photo by Grahame MacLaren) Unions protest Mexican Tube workers government’s use of force defend jobs The Maritime Union of New Zealand has Representatives of the Maritime Union of More than 1000 members of Los Mineros joined global transport unions in offering New Zealand (MUNZ) delivered a protest were on strike over a long-running dispute its solidarity to the current struggle of letter to the acting Mexican Ambassador with the company, Grupo Mexico, over London Underground workers defend on Wednesday 30 June 2010. health and safety and other contract safe and appropriate staffing levels and Maritime Union General Secretary Joe violations. conditions. Fleetwood said unions had deep concern Los Mineros reported that three workers Maritime Union General Secretary Joe at the Mexican government’s use of force received gunshot or projectile wounds, Fleetwood wrote to the RMT and TSSA against striking workers in the National and others had been beaten or were unions in the UK in October commending Miners’ and Metalworkers Union of suffering from the effects of the tear gas. their members for leading the defence of Mexico (Los Mineros). The letter urges the Mexican government high quality public services and secure The Maritime Union together with other to allow the elected leader of the union, jobs. members of the Mining and Maritime Napoleon Gomez, to return to Mexico “Your stance is appreciated by us, as we all union committee condemned the assault from exile in Canada and resume his know that the struggle for secure jobs and by heavily armed riot police on striking position. safe workplaces is a global one. members of Los Mineros at the Cananea The acting Mexican Ambassador Luis “The London Underground is a world copper mine in Mexico. Enrique Franco gave an assurance he renowned institution and the people who On 6 June hundreds of Mexican riot police would convey to his government the deep make it work are the people who work in surrounded the mine and used tear gas to concerns of the New Zealand trade union it – your members. dislodge workers who were occupying the movement over the Mexican government’s “It is obvious that all working people entrances and to assault the union office. treatment of the workers involved. are under attack due to the failure, incompetence and greed of the current economic and social system that is hellbent on profit at all cost.”

14 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz VIEWPOINT

Uranium and New Zealand by Gareth Hughes, Green MP Regardless of the local risks, New Zealand The International Atomic Energy Agency Recently, the Paranagua Express, carrying should not be part of, and support, the suffers from a want of funds and is tonnes of radioactive uranium ore, was nuclear chain and allow the raw materials prevented from making spot inspections. berthed at the Port of Auckland. needed for nuclear generation, because Australia has sold to non-proliferation It is proof of our support for the of the huge impact uranium mining treaty members, such as Taiwan. international nuclear cycle, mocking our has on the Australian environment, its Even when Australia does sell to non- nuclear-free status. This ship and the communities, and its workers. proliferation member States, there is no others that will be transhipping through Doctors say that 30 to 50 percent of men way of tracking the on selling to non- our ports almost weekly, undermine our who have worked in the uranium mines members. proud nuclear-free history, and the blood, in Australia have developed lung cancer As I tabled in the House, a report from sweat, and tears of thousands of Kiwis and have died. If they wear respirators Energyscience states: ”This illustrates who, in the 1980s, fought to entrench our it makes no difference because the radon Australian uranium enables countries to nuclear-free status on the world stage. gas still gets through, even if the powder advance nuclear weapons by freeing up Radioactive uranium ore is more than does not. Much of the darker side of scarce domestic reserves. Australia sells Australian dirt, as Minister for the uranium mining in Australia is left unsaid, its uranium to nuclear weapon States, and Environment Nick Smith alleges. This is a as employees in the larger businesses purposefully closes its eyes to the uses of radioactive material that puts our people are forced to sign non-disclosure clauses its uranium, and New Zealand should not at risk, harms Australians, damages the before they start work. There are many be a link.” environment, and is possibly involved in stories of spills that employees are too Although the weapons-grade link is the most egregious industry of all - the intimidated to put on the record. murky and secretive, and we cannot nuclear weapons industry. We need an Uranium mining is environmentally ascertain whether, or how many, grams urgent moratorium on these shipments. destructive. For every tonne of uranium or kilos of Australian uranium have been But what does the Government say to produced, hundreds of tonnes of turned into weapons, I can guarantee Kiwis? “Let them eat yellowcake.” radioactive and toxic wastes or tailings every single gram will be disposed of as Earlier this year the Environmental Risk are left behind. South Australia’s Olympic waste and pose a hazard for millions of Management Authority (ERMA) decided Dam, for example, consumes 33 million years. to routinely tranship uranium ore from litres of water every day and is one of In the 1980s, New Zealand stood up Australia, stored in 44 gallon drums, the largest users in that dry country. The and spoke truth to power. We said no through the ports of Auckland, Tauranga, Queensland branch of the Electrical Trades to nuclear weapons and no to nuclear- Napier, and Nelson, en route to various Union has recently banned its members powered ships in our ports. Yet, at the nations. from working in the uranium mines or in same time, we continued allowing It is a radioactive powder that gets turned the nuclear industry. uranium to tranship through our into either fuel rods or enriched uranium. Until it can be proved that none of this ports, and, we found out only recently, The risks locally are probably smaller uranium in our port is contributing to seemingly without any officials or elected than, say, from a fuel-oiled tanker or the nuclear weapons, we need a moratorium. representatives being aware. This trade plutonium shipments in the Tasman Sea. The Australian Government says that is being conducted behind closed doors, But the risks are there, and the risks are its uranium is used only for peaceful like so many of the nuclear energy and genuine. Accidents do happen, especially purposes. However, this has been weapons programmes internationally. at sea. Fires can rage for days, and cargo challenged repeatedly. Australia cannot Why were the public not consulted? We can move around on board, splitting and will not guarantee that its uranium need an investigation into these issues, open containers. Our ports and our port will not be turned into nuclear weapons or and I hope to introduce draft legislation workers are not equipped to deal with depleted uranium; nor does the Australian to amend the New Zealand Nuclear Free radioactive spills. Safeguards and Non-Proliferation Office Zone, Disarmament, and Arms Control keep track of Australian uranium. Act 1987 to prohibit New Zealand’s role in the nuclear cycle. www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 15 PORTS KiwiPort the answer to port paralysis by Joe Fleetwood General Secretary Every month there is another call for ‘rationalization’ of New Zealand ports and the privatization of these largely community owned assets. The debate is becoming more and more bad tempered, and the latest port report from the Local Government Forum has set the business establishment snapping and snarling at each other. It’s a complicated scenario. What’s going Jones politely dismissed the Layton report, Successive Government’s have played pass on behind the scenes? saying the topic needed to be thought the parcel with the issue and the current Despite its name, the Local Government through a bit more. Minister Stephen Joyce has maintained an Forum is nothing to do with local He added that efficiency needed to be enigmatic silence on port matters and has Government, and is a front for big considered in the context of how the retreated to a safe distance. business interests. ports operated and their value in the total Perhaps he is hoping the political hot Their report was written by Brent Layton, supply chain. potato of ports will be passed along to his a former Chairman of Lyttelton Port The worry for Fonterra is that ports successor to puzzle over. Company who departed in 2002. He says working together would mean less power In the meantime nothing gets done. all this has no influence on his views. for the dairy giant to set the rules of the It is remarkable that a maritime trading Basically the Layton report is another game. nation like New Zealand seems to treat its voice singing from the finance sector However, despite the obvious self-interest ports and shipping as an afterthought. songbook. New Zealand ports, according for Fonterra, Mr Jones did make some The Maritime Union view is that a national to the report, are inefficient and should be good points. ports plan should be developed by the sold off to aid ‘rationalization.’ He dismissed the usual bogey of Government, with input from all sectors of There’s the usual anti-union stuff as well. ‘underproductivity’ by saying that it was the economy. The maritime workers who work round dangerous to look at issues such as crane Port ownership could remain in local the clock, in a heavy duty and often productivity in isolation, because ports ownership, but ports need to be working dangerous industry, have always got it were part of the supply chain. together and mechanisms in place to too good, apparently. Less for them means His observation correctly identifies ports ensure resources are not wasted by more for manager’s bonuses, I suppose. as core infrastructure required for the duplication of infrastructure. The key arguments in this report are functioning of our export economy. Our ‘KiwiPort’ concept is about moving nonsense. Whether or not ports should be there forward, but not through ‘leaving it to Look at what happened to rail. It was simply for the convenience of Fonterra the market’ - and then having to come in corporatized, privatized and eventually is another question, but it is obvious that and fix up the resulting mess with public returned in shabby condition to its rightful ports have a special and very important money. owners, the people of New Zealand. role. The alternative scenario is ugly to consider. Even the current National Government They are a national infrastructure asset A mish mash of privatisation, parochial have reluctantly accepted rail has to stay in and a core part of our supply chain, not self-interest and mindless competition, public ownership because it is an essential just a cash cow for their owners. manipulation by shipping conglomerates part of our transport infrastructure and the Port company executives also savaged the on one side and Fonterra on the other, private sector failed to deliver. Layton report. It appears that Mr Layton and the control of ports passing to global What is really interesting though is the only talked to the people who were going terminal operators, is an outcome in which reaction the Layton report received from to give him the answers he wanted. we will all be losers. other big transport players. It all seems to Port of Lyttelton CEO Peter Davie said the There needs to be a debate about the be bad. report was poorly structured, out of date future of our ports. The feedback from Nigel Jones, who sorts and should not be taken seriously. That future must mean more than just out transport for Fonterra, was eyebrow A public row between all these players leaving it to a few vested interests to battle raising. shows how contentious and factionalized it out. Mr Jones holds a unique influence over the the ports debate is. Even the business It’s our industry and the ports belong to all future of the entire New Zealand transport establishment can’t agree with itself. of us. We should be making the calls. system, because Fonterra’s decisions have The people we elect to run the country are the power to make or break ports and conspicuous by their absence from any redirect the entire rail system. leadership role.

16 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz MERCHANT NAVY DAY New Zealand’s First Merchant Navy Day

New Zealand’s first Merchant Navy Day was commemorated on 3 September 2010. The day marks the crucial work of merchant seamen in war-time efforts. Sailing the ships that delivered troops, military equipment, fuel and vital food to our allies, the New Zealand Merchant Navy traversed the world’s oceans in times of danger and in rough seas. The work of our merchant seamen was so essential that the Merchant Navy was effectively regarded as the fourth service alongside the army, navy and air force. In both World Wars the Allies could not have continued without the contribution of the Merchant Navy. Merchant ships were a lifeline, supplying much of the United Kingdom’s butter and cheese, and also carrying tons of meat, bales of wool, and munitions. Merchant seamen were civilians, but on the front line of the war. They faced the Auckland Merchant Navy Memorial, 3 September 2010 (photo by Garry Parsloe) constant possibility of attack, and death in the freezing waters of the Atlantic or in the shark-infested waters of the Pacific. And this was indeed the fate of some of our seafarers. The Minister for Culture and Heritage, the Hon Chris Finlayson, spoke at the ceremony held at the National War Memorial on 3 September as well as the Governor General, the Rt Hon Sir Anand Satyanand, Rear Admiral Tony Parr, Chief of Navy; and retired Rear Admiral David Ledson (see more on Letters, page 47.)

“Merchant seamen were civilians, but on the front line of Paul Baggott, MUNZ member and AB on the Kaitaki, put up these flags with the approval of the members to mark Merchant Navy Day, 3 September 2010. The flags read, Mike November Delta Alpha Yankee (MNDAY) with the “Red the war” Duster” flying next to them.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 17 ITF

Trans Tasman co-operation New Zealand ITF inspector Grahame MacLaren with crew from the Sea Riches following the successful payout of wages owed to them by Grahame McLaren The agent told me he would look into the Pacific Lohas ITF Inspector situation and pass my message on to the I received a call from ITF Australian Captain. Assistant Coordinator Matt Purcell Hanjin Bombay As it was late afternoon and with the requesting follow up in persuading the On 18 June 2010 at the port of Tauranga, Engineer due to fly out early the next Chinese owners to put in place an ITF Branch Secretary Eddie Cook was morning Eddie kindly agreed to visit the agreement for this vessel. “Joint notices approached by an Indonesian Engineer vessel and make our point to the Captain. of action were issued from ourselves from this Korean owned vessel Eddie met with the Captain who claimed and Matt to the effect that industrial complaining that he had been sacked he had no authority to pay the Engineer action may take place in the port of due to what the Korean Captain deemed any more than the $10 per day, but agreed Wellington unless an ITF agreement incompetence. to contact the Indonesian manning agents was forthcoming for the vessel. “This The Engineer was due to be repatriated for clarification. approach had the desired effect as we to Indonesia the next morning and was Eddie waited while he did so, after soon received notification from the Hong concerned that he may be liable for the some time an email was received from Kong Merchant Navy Officers Guild that costs. The Captain had also told the the manning agents to the affect that the signing of an ITF approved agreement Engineer that he would only be paid the Engineer would now be paid all for the vessel would be concluded soon. US$10 a day from the date of his dismissal entitlements as per the ITF agreement and “On the vessels arrival in Wellington on 7 until the date of his arrival back in confirming that repatriation would be at July I approached the Captain and asked Indonesia. “I contacted the ships agents, the company’s sole expense. if he had had any correspondence from and spoke to the manager who claimed to Eddie gave the Engineer my contact details the company regarding the signing of an be unaware of the situation. instructing him to contact me should there agreement. I told him that the Engineer must be be any problems with the payments. He told me that he had been contacted paid normal basic wages as set out in the The agents also contacted me to confirm by the company confirming a pending vessels ITF agreement until his arrival that the Engineer would be would be paid agreement and produced a letter from the back in Indonesia, and that repatriation all entitlements as per the ITF agreement, company to that effect.” must be at the company’s sole expense. and repatriation would be at no cost to A great result and a good example of trans him. Tasman cooperation.

18 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz ITF It’s your magazine.

All members are welcome to send in contributions to The Maritimes. It’s your magazine, and every issue we have rank and file members who send in their photos, letters, and articles

Wellington Seafarers Branch member and ITF contact Ray Cook discusses the situation with agents and officers of the about what they’re doing Sea Riches on and off the job. If you need some advice

Sea Riches This meant the crew would have no we can help, and if there In July 2010 I was again contacted by ITF opportunity to get to a bank to send the is something you’d like Australian Assistant Coordinator Matt money home to China. Purcell regarding the Chinese crew of this Our fear being that if they had no to see in the magazine vessel only receiving wages equivalent to opportunity to send the money home then one third of the pay scale set out in their as soon as the vessel left the New Zealand let us know. ITF agreement. coast there was a very real possibility that This underpayment had been going on the money would be taken back. Contact the editor at: for 8 months. Matt had lodged a claim The agents were adamant that the for US$140,000 with the Hong Kong payment would only take place in Picton, based owners on behalf of the crew and but after much argument agreed the vessel Mail requested that I witness the payment when would not sail unless the back pay took the vessel arrived in NZ. place elsewhere, and on a week day, they PO Box 27004, I contacted the vessels agents who finally relented and it was agreed that Wellington, after some initial reluctance finally Wellington would be the venue for the acknowledged that a back payment would back pay. New Zealand take place in NZ. On the vessels arrival in Wellington myself They informed that as the money had to and Wellington ITF Contact Ray Cook be in US dollars and this amount would went on board and witnessed the back pay Email have be flown in from Australia. They said to a very happy Chinese crew. [email protected]. this would take a few days and stated the We gave each man a map with directions only port that they could arrange this for to the nearest Western Union branch and nz would be the vessels last port of call in urged them to send the money home NZ, Picton. before the vessel departed Wellington for Fax (09) 9251125 This would be on a Sunday with the vessel Picton to which they all agreed. sailing that night. Another great example of trans Tasman I informed the agents that Picton was an cooperation. Mobile 021482219 unsuitable venue for the back payment due to its remoteness and the fact that the vessel would be there on a Sunday.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 19 UNION HISTORY The Great Maritime Strike of 1890

Auckland seamen barricading the wharf during the strike

Introduction The following account of the Great New Zealand with an instant membership by Victor Billot, Editor Maritime Strike of 1890 is an edited of 8,000. account adapted with permission from 2010 marks the 120th anniversary of New Millar was elected secretary, miners ‘Jagged Seas’ by David Grant, the Zealand’s first major industrial dispute, leader John Lomas treasurer and D P forthcoming official history of the New the Great Maritime Strike of 1890. Fisher, president of the Wellington Wharf Zealand Seafarers’ Union. Although this dispute ended in a defeat Labourers’ Union, its first president. It is published in two parts, and the second for the maritime workers, it was part of a The Maritime Council prospered. Other instalment will appear in the next edition great upsurge in trade union activity and marine workers including cooks and of the Maritimes magazine. set the groundwork for the growth of trade stewards and marine officers (whose unionism in New Zealand. junior members faced similar privations to It was the first major test of the maritime Part 1: The Maritime Council seamen) joined as did non-marine unions, unions of New Zealand and established by David Grant such as railwaymen, carters, and those representing expressmen and storemen. a reputation for seafarers and waterside On 26 and 28 October 1889, a conference workers as the militant and progressive Lomas and Millar toured the country organized by the President of the Seaman’s organizing branches in every mining core of the wider labour movement. Union John Millar, formed a national What is remarkable about the 1890 area. Although there were trades councils body of maritime unions with delegates operating locally, the Maritime Council situation is how in many ways the same representing seamen, wharf labourers and type of battles are being fought today. functioned as a federation of key national miners from around the country. unions of the time and quickly gained The seafarers, dockers and miners were The delegates were greatly encouraged the three major groups involved in the recognition as the central voice of by news of the outstanding success of the organized labour. Millar quickly became dispute, along with others who had London Dock Strike running since August. been attracted by the early success of the the acknowledged national spokesperson New Zealand and Australian unionists for all unions. Maritime Council, as this federation was including seamen had raised a remarkable known. Simultaneously, organised labour was on £30,423 from among its members to the march in every country. The Knights Although the structure of our economy support the London dockers. has now changed and these three groups of Labour, for example, had been inspiring It was a red letter day in New Zealand a new interest in trade unionism in the of workers are numerically and relatively unionism when Millar announced the much smaller, it is interesting to compare United States and a wave of strikes crossed formation of the Maritime Council at the that country through 1886 and 1887. how the modern day work of the Maritime end of the October conference. Union with the international mining and A year later, in Great Britain, match-girls This alliance between the Federated withdrew their labour, successfully, in that maritime initiative, and fellow transport Seamen’s Union, the Miners’ Union and unions in New Zealand and Australia country’s first-ever strike by women, and the Wharf Labourers’ Union was the first dockers were organising for their great and around the world, continues over a national collective of trade unionists in century later. 20 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz UNION HISTORY showdown they would have with ship- not only all of the labouring-based unions maritime industry, including mining and owners the following year. including seamen, wharf labourers, shearing. In Melbourne, a group of union leaders carters, storemen and miners, but also an But there too fearful employers were formed a Maritime Labour Council increasing number of “craft” unions. poising to launch an all-out offensive to devoted to the strengthening of efforts for They had previously expressed their union strip it of its strength. unions to mutually co-operate and provide activism, however mild, through the In preparation, the SSOA, in July 1890, financial support among one another. provincial Trades and Labour Councils, instituted a levy on members’ capital News of these successes brought fresh which now also looked to the Maritime which it kept secret. ideas and new rhetoric about the Council for leadership. It now needed an excuse to fire the importance and worth of trade union Also affiliated was a newly formed first shots. Such an opportunity fell its solidarity from all parts of the world. Marine Officers’ Association whose junior way when within weeks of the levy’s Moreover, particularly after the dockers’ members’ pay and conditions of work were introduction, the newly formed Australian triumph, New Zealand unionists began little better than the ratings below them. Marine Officers’ Association, currently to see themselves as representatives as In 1890, the officers’ association called on in negotiation with the SSOA on wages a class rather than just a craft or a trade. John Millar’s expertise in negotiations for and conditions of work, announced its Unions, which only recently had been improvements in salaries and conditions. affiliation to the Australian Maritime wary of assisting a strike in the same town, With union strength however, came fear Council. were now willingly sending contributions from employers, newspapers and many The SSOA, itself formed to protect and round the globe. among the middle classes that such power enhance employers’ interests, immediately With these changes and the foundation of was threatening the “good order” of refused to accept the right of one section the Maritime Council, which claimed the society. of its employees to join any other for the allegiance of 16,000 workers at its peak, As it transpired a powder keg was about protection of its interests as employers the Seamen’s Union faced the future with to explode. and refused to continue negotiations with understandable confidence. The Council’s industrial strength lay the marine officers until their association As if to emphasise this new potency, primarily among the seamen and agreed to disaffiliate from the Council. the Council, in February 1890, became watersiders and the prime mover in the This was blatant bullying. There was no involved in a strike at the Petone Woollen forthcoming anti-union offensive came legal right or moral justification for the Mills over the dismissal of union members. from the country’s biggest employer in the SSOA to act in such a way. It was merely Initially this dispute had been handed over maritime industry, the Union Steam Ship a convenient device to try to smash the to the Wellington Trades Council to try to Company. Council’s power. settle but when that had been unsuccessful The Maritime Council had affiliated The officers refused the ultimatum; the the dispute was passed over to the Council with its trans-Tasman counterpart, the ship-owners declared negotiations at an which in a matter of days persuaded the Australian Maritime Council, largely to end. company to re-employ the dismissed men combat the Union Company’s affiliation In response, the Officers’ Association at union rates of pay. with the Australasian Steam Ship Owners’ called its men out on strike on 17 August Thus the Maritime Council came quickly Association (SSOA). as did within days, the Australian to be both the most powerful body of trade This strengthened the Council’s industrial Seamen’s Union. unionists in the colony and a successful muscle and gave its vision of class Ten days later, the Australian Maritime broker of industrial disputes. solidarity an international horizon. Council requested its opposite number Taking Millar’s lead, union leaders were The Australian Council had become even in New Zealand to instruct its Seamen’s now becoming more outspoken in calls more powerful than its New Zealand Union to order a progressive withdrawal for better pay and conditions for their counterpart providing sinews for a of its members from the ships of the members. resurgence of unionism far beyond the SSOA‘s New Zealand-based members- On 11 June 1890 the Lyttelton Times crewmen on Union Company’s ships. reported the new mood of confidence When the USS Wairarapa made landfall at amongst the working class. “The Port Chalmers on 28 August, its seamen railwaymen are everywhere, bakers walked off. in Christchurch, tramwaymen in The Wharf Labourers’ Union then refused Wellington, the mates of all the steamers, to load goods for the return journey to the tailoresses, workers in wool, casual Australia. labour on the wharves, cabmen-all these But the Wairarapa’s senior officers, represent thousands of souls and all are in engineers, and chief stewards, none of agitation. This agitation is organized and whom were affiliated to the Maritime everywhere it sees clearly what it wants Council, remained on duty and non-union and goes straight for it. The result is that labour to work the vessel was found the forces of capital are getting alarmed!” among the company’s shore staff, and It was not before time. Until this time, from among the ranks of underemployed wharf labour had been cheap and rural workers and the urban middle easily exploited, aided in no small part classes. by the long depression through the The interlopers were enthusiastic but 1880s during which the unemployed unskilled, once again raising wider fears and underemployed hung around the about the safety of the ships at sea. waterfront hoping for “seagulling” work. The spark had been lit. The strike escalated But by 1890, unions were putting to encompass two nations and hundreds their price up. Their new vigour was of workers as ships lay idle in all ports, striking fear in the hearts and minds of unionist seamen and watersiders refusing employers, despite many of whom, such to work alongside scab labour. as the directors of the Union Steam Ship Company, making enormous profits. John Andrew Millar, General Secretary of the Seaman’s (To be continued in the next edition of the By July 1890, the Council had on board Union 1887-93, Secretary of the Maritime Council 1889-90 Maritimes) www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 21 STEVEDORING MUA Stevedoring Conference by Ian Quarrell and Carl Findlay The MUA Stevedoring Conference was held in Melbourne on 1-2 June 2010 and attended by MUNZ delegates Ian Quarrell (Port Chalmers Dunedin Local 10) and Carl Findlay (Auckland Local 13.) The Conference was opened by MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin who gave a national overview and MUA Deputy National Secretary Mick Doleman. Assistant National Secretary Warren Smith spoke on how unions intended to claw back conditions lost during the global recession, union training, health and safety, delegates. Health and safety issues were on the agenda due to the death of MUA docker Nick Fanos earlier in the year. Automation was also a big focus of interest. Niek Stam of Dutch dockers union FNV gave an interesting talk on how his home port of Rotterdam is now heavily automated, with the only workers left MUNZ delegate Carl Findlay, Vice President Auckland Local 13 (right) with MUA delegates at the MUA Terminals being crane drivers, lashers and computer Conference, June 2010 (photo by Joe Carr, MUA) operators, with even rail and truck loading being automated. The Union fought to keep high-tech jobs Alongside automation is the traditional Automation includes ship to remote union controlled, but the Dutch dockers work of lashing, and unions are having to controlled ship to shore cranes, automatic workforce shrunk from 30,000 to 6,500. resist outsourcing and casualization in this stacking cranes, shuttle carriers, electronic There were some advantages as the new area. data and internet systems and autostrads technology could provide workers with At the conclusion of Day One, delegates (two of which are now operating in better job quality and skills. However the attended a rally in the Melbourne central Brisbane.) major concern is that more jobs will go as city protesting the killing of civilian the automation extends further. members of a Gaza supply convoy by

Maritime Union of New Zealand delegates Ian Quarrell and Carl Findlay with MUA delegates at the MUA Terminals Conference, Melbourne (photo courtesy MUA)

22 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz STEVEDORING

European workers fight back against cuts

Tens of thousands of European workers have taken to the streets in the last few months to protest against sweeping austerity measures by many national governments. Unions in Spain have held a general strike and unions in other European Union states staged demonstrations, including Greece, Poland, Italy, Latvia, Ireland and Serbia. In Spain, protesters clashed with police MUNZ delegate Ian Quarrell, President Port Chalmers Dunedin Local 10 (third from left) with delegates at the MUA outside Madrid’s main bus depot. Terminals Conference, June 2010 (photo by Joe Carr, MUA) The European Trade Union Confederation said EU workers could become the biggest Israeli troops. There was a substantial In the drug and alcohol area there was victims of a financial crisis set off by turnout and Warren Smith was one of the a move towards swab testing and some bankers and traders. speakers, this was an interesting way to interesting information about the high rate “We didn’t cause this crisis. The bill has end the day. of false positives from urine testing. to be paid by banks, not by workers” a Due to running short on time, Carl Findlay There was a strong talk from Canadian spokesperson for the European Trade was the only speaker for MUNZ and gave docker Jyalnen Sidho who reported on that Union Confederation told the BBC. an update on the Auckland situation, country’s waterfront and the recent death Governments across the 27-member and RMTU Port Chalmers delegate Ruth of a Canadian docker. bloc are slashing wages, pensions and Blakeley talked about the RMTU rail Two of the things that made an impact employment to cut back on debts. campaign. was realizing the level of casualization Unemployment is soaring. On the last day, we heard a number of in Australia, it is a problem for them as The European Trade Union Confederation reports on the stevedoring industry in well, and the effect of technology and (Etuc) said it was aiming for 100,000 Australia including health and safety, and automation in some big global ports as people from some 30 countries to take part political issues. reported by Nick Stam. in a march in Brussels where protesters We had a presentation on the MUA work It was an excellent conference and very were voicing their anger over budget- towards a safety code and also White worthwhile for some MUNZ members off slashing plans and cuts which “could lead Ribbon Day, the campaign to stop violence the job to attend and bring us up to speed Europe into a recession”. against women. with what is happening in our global It said the financial crisis had already The Womens Report included a report on industry. made 23 million people across the EU attendance at an international womens jobless. union conference of many nationalities. At this stage, the MUA members from the two big stevedores in Australia Patricks and DP World split up to discuss what they would like to see in future negotiations.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 23 FAIRNESS AT WORK Fighting for workers rights: Fairness at Work Rallies, August 2010

Auckland, 21 August 2010

Christchurch, 21 August 2010

24 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz FAIRNESS AT WORK Fighting for workers rights: Fairness at Work Rallies, August 2010

Dunedin, 22 August 2010

Wellington, 21 August 2010 www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 25 PORT ROUNDUPS

Kia Ora Gaza by Garry Parsloe National Vice President On 7 July 2010 the first public meeting of ‘Kia Ora Gaza’ Kiwi Aid to Gaza was held in Auckland and I was asked to speak on behalf of the Council of Trade Unions. I stated that the NZCTU and the Trade Union Movement find it reprehensible the way these people are being deprived the necessities of life, and further stated that we will support this campaign and any other campaign in support of this issue. I then read Helen Kelly’s message of sup- port to the meeting which said: “I am very pleased to support the solidarity action ‘Kia Ora Gaza’. The people of Gaza have suffered severely from the blockade of Gaza by Israel. This has included not only their inability to get the materials they need to rebuild after the last bombard- At the Auckland 2010 May Day function, from left, Labour MP Darien Fenton, Green MP Meteria Turei, MUNZ Local 13 ment of Gaza by the Israeli Army but also President Garry Parsloe, and Labour MP Carol Beaumont even the ability to get school supplies. The attack on the most recent flotilla was an act of piracy and the violence displayed was beyond belief. A supply of aid from the people of New Zealand is a way for us to send a real expression both of our disapproval of the blockade but also our solidarity with the people of Gaza. I wish it every success.” I then concluded by stating that as Chairman of the Auckland Branch of the Council of Trade Unions I would be calling the Auckland Trade Unions together and placing this issue on the top of the agenda and I was sure that we would carry full and unequivocal support for this cam- paign that delivers long overdue justice to the Palestinian people. More information at: http://kiaoragaza.wordpress.com/

Maritime Union Local 13 at May Day Auckland 2010, from left, Vic McCafferty, Rex Nicholls, Slim Forde, Garry Parsloe, Russell Mayn and Peter Davis Auckland May Day 2010

by Garry Parsloe We also acknowledged the massive input Chairman, Auckland May Day Committee that Linda Holt put into past May Day activities. At 2pm on May Day (Saturday 1 May After the speeches we had an excellent 2010) union delegates officials and the spread of food to feast on. rank and file assembled at the Britomart Thanks to the Cooks, Wayne Bell and Paul and marched to the Maritime Club in Gradiska they did a great job. Anzac Ave. The mixing and mingling went well into At the Club we celebrated Workers Inter- the night, so May Day was once again national Day with speeches from Darien celebrated in true fashion in Auckland for Fenton (Labour MP) Meteria Turei (Green 2010. MP) and Carol Beaumont (Labour MP).

26 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS Protest at National Party Conference, Auckland

On 18 July 2010 large numbers of trade unionists assembled outside the National Party Conference in Auckland to protest against the Governments intent to extend the law that removes the right to appeal against unfair dismissal and restrict union access onto worksites. As Convener of CTU Unions Auckland I addressed the Rally stating: “If we reflect on the last Elections and the change of Government and the reason for it. The Labour Government was not removed for being a bad Government, even though they did not provide for the absolute right to strike or deliver on cabotage, they did protect workers’ rights, Protest at National Party conference against changes to workplace laws, 18 July 2010, from left MUNZ member yet we voted on ‘Time for a Change’. Now Darryll Brack, Auckland Local 13 President Garry Parsloe, Labour MP Carol Beaumont, and Darryl’s son Cameron Jacob- we have got it and that change will damage Sauer who is the One Tree Hill representative in the Youth Parliament. unions, workers and their families.” If we just address the union’s right of access which in turn pitches workers against campaign to remove this Government and to workers on job sites and that is removed workers and starts the downward spiral of their attacks on workers and their families then the union loses the ability to get work- workers conditions of employment. and ensure that they are not re-elected at ers into unions and collective agreements So Comrades we must get behind the the next elections.”

CTU Union Leaders Forum by Garry Parsloe above then report back. One of the most Day Two National Vice President spoken about issues was the no-pass on Day two opened with a session headed On the 22 - 23 July 2010, General Secretary clause that stops freeloading by non union “Union Management”. Joe Fleetwood, Local 13 Secretary Russell members and how important that issue is This session was presented by Nigel Ha- Mayn and I attended the CTU Union Lead- with workers. worth and Bill Newson. ers Forum at the Alexandra Park Function Part of the work shop was around ‘Build- They spoke on Industry Councils, Delegate Centre, Auckland. ing a Modern Union Movement’. We Forums, National Councils, Biennial Con- CTU President Helen Kelly welcomed have to recognise crisis and basic capacity ferences, organising, bargaining, Industry everyone to the Forum. building, develop comprehensive cam- training and Industry development. The first session was headed “What does paign capacity and growth strategies, and We had workshops on the above issues a Modern Movement look like” and was restructure resource allocation. with report backs. delivered by NZEI Secretary Paul Goulter After lunch on day one we had a session The last session of Day Two was headed and PSA Secretary Brenda Pilott. under the heading “Union Education”. “Precarious Employment”. The session They spoke on Union density, Union mem- This session was presented by Kate Gains- was presented by James Ritchie and Mar- bership relative to size of employment ford, John Ryall and Jennifer Curtin. They garet Wilson. They expanded on decent force, Union membership and number of spoke on site by site organising, negotiat- jobs verses precarious work, labour hire Unions, number of Unions by size and ing collective agreements and the struggle and contracting out. Union membership by Industry. in getting an acceptable collective agree- It was an interesting Forum which I hope There was a long presentation on the ment settlement. has established a platform for the way trends that set the scene on the makeup of forward. the Union Movement. We went into workshops to discuss the

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 27 PORT ROUNDUPS

Life Membership: John O’Neill by Garry Parsloe National Vice President The Local 13 Auckland Branch Stop Work meeting on 13 July 2010 presented John O’Neill with his Life Membership. At the presentation I reminded the meeting of John’s long involvement and input into the New Zealand Seamen’s Union, the New Zealand Seafarers Union, and the Maritime Union of New Zealand. John’s input into all three unions started when he became Lyttelton Secretary way back in the late 1960s before he went onto being Auckland Assistant Secretary, a Sea- going National Councillor and National Vice President of the New Zealand Seafarers Union. Even today John is the joint vice President of Local 13, the Auckland Branch of the Maritime Union of New Zealand. In conclusion John has shown a life time of commitment and a magnificent contribution not only to the three Maritime Unions but to the whole Trade Union movement. There is no one more deserving of a Life Long serving Maritime Union member and Local 13 Vice President John O’Neill receives his life membership certificate Membership than John O’Neill. from Maritime Union National Vice President Garry Parsloe, Branch Stopwork Meeting, 13 July 2010

Sea Tow by Garry Parsloe National Vice President On 17-18 May 2010, General Secretary ITF Asia/Pacific Regional Joe Fleetwood and I attended a meeting with the Western Australian Branch of the Maritime Union of Australia over manning Committee meeting issues with Sea-Tow in the Offshore in Western Australia. Manila, Philippines 13-14 May 2010 The issues were over 50/50 manning, availability of Australian Seafarers, meet- by Garry Parsloe After I delivered my report, the Chairman ings with Sea-Tow Management, unem- National Vice President MUNZ Mahendra Sharma and the ITF General ployed Sea-Tow employees and where Convenor, New Zealand ITF Affiliates Secretary David Cockroft both pledged Sea-Tow were with their tendering process full support for our dispute, with David for work in the Australian Offshore. On the 13-14 May 2010 General Secretary Cockroft stating that the ITF can be called The meeting was very productive and we Joe Fleetwood and I attended the ITF upon to directly approach the Shipping reached agreement on the way forward Asia/Pacific Regional Committee Meeting Companies that trade through Auckland over the above issues. in Manila, Philippines. and that the ITF will not stand by and I attended a follow up meeting with the The chairman opened the meeting by let contracted/outsourced labour be Maritime Union of Australia in Sydney on addressing issues from previous minutes. introduced onto the Auckland Waterfront. 1 July 2010. After some discussion around previous The Chairman then raised issues that In attendance was Peter Dunlop Manager minutes we heard reports on disputes and were to go before the Mexico Congress of Sea-Tow, Mick Doleman (MUA), Chris various other issues facing the ITF and especially on how we vote in the election Cain (MUA) and myself. The discus- their affiliates. process. sions were productive and we reached Day one concluded with Country reports The meeting was productive and set the an agreement again on manning arrange- from Thailand, Korea and Indonesia. ground work for an even more productive ments/coverage and we are in the process Day two opened with more Country congress in Mexico that will set the agenda of putting an updated memorandum of reports and indepth reports on disputes. for over the next four years. understanding in place as a positive way I was able to at this time deliver my forward. Country report where I expanded on our dispute with the Ports of Auckland.

28 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS

Maritime Union of New Zealand Auckland Local 13 members protest the Government’s attacks on workers rights outside the National Party Conference, July 2010, from left Mark Goold, Darell Keohane, Graham McKean (Coach), Local 13 Secretary Russell Mayn, Mario O’Merovic (photo by John Darroch)

Conlinxx Picket, 16 September 2010. Maritime Union Local 13 members protest against outsourcing of jobs (photo by John Darroch) www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 29 PORT ROUNDUPS

He told the conference “Unfortunately for Mexicans, we are currently living in a period of extreme difficulty for the working class under a ultra-right wing Government which is fraudulent and aims to eliminate social and union activities, drastically reducing social, human, labour and union rights.” A number of other delegates from several countries also spoke on these themes. The federal government in Mexico is anti- union and is trying all time to destabilize and weaken the unions. General secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation, and former leader of the Australian unions, Sharan Burrow, gave a speech via video as she could not attend the congress due to flight problems. She said that decent work is a fundamental human right and freedom of association, organizing and collective bargaining are the rights and tools to drive a fairer globalization. Maritime Union of New Zealand delegates at the 42nd ITF Congress, Mexico City, August 2010, from left General Secretary Joe The mayor of Mexico City Marcelo Ebrard Fleetwood, National Vice President Garry Parsloe, Wellington Seafarers’ Branch executive member Marian Leslie, also at Congress but not in photo Wellington Branch Secretary Mike Clark (photo courtesy of ITF) welcomed the delegates and was happy that the congress was being held there. We also saw some Mexican dancing as part of the welcome. The congress theme was “Strong unions, Wellington Report Sustainable transport.” Industry sections – Friday 6 August MUNZ General Secretary Joe Fleetwood, on ITF Mexico and National Vice President Garry Parsloe On Day 2 the Congress split into industry attended, as did two representatives from sections, followed by a symposium on Conference the Wellington Seafarers Branch, Mike trade union rights. Clark and Marian Leslie. The four MUNZ delegates attended the Other unions from New Zealand seafarers section conference. This was chaired by B. Orrell (UK) Vice Chair D. By Mike Clark and Marian Leslie represented were the Merchant Service Guild, RMTU and the EPMU. Heindel (USA) Secretary J. Whitlow (UK) The ITF 42nd congress was held in Mexico The trip started off with some difficulties and Women’s Rep J. Smith (Norway). City from 3–11 August 2010. due to problems with the airline Mexicana. The Secretary identified the points of The ITF congress is held every 4 years activity within the section for the last and attended by unions who are affiliated Opening day – Thursday 5 August four years including piracy, retention members. of maritime skills, young workers and There were eight “section” conferences at The opening day began with Registration working with other sectors on container this Congress for civil aviation, dockers, at 8am and a Plenary Session between cargo safety. fisheries, inland navigation, rail, road 10am and 5pm. Just for the record, plenary ITF Organizing Globally co-ordinator Ingo transport, seafarers and tourism. means to be attended by all delegates and Marowsky gave a presentation on global The key message and strategy is that with participants. organizing, explaining the transition globalization and new technology, and a ITF General Secretary David Cockcroft from the Durban Congress in 2006 to the greater integration of transport functions, and outgoing President Randall Howard programme in the current Congress. He Unions must deliver a co-ordinated opened this session outlining the discussed the ITF’s approach to strategic response across the various sections of the challenges facing the global trade union organizing and the structural changes in ITF. movement such as deregulation and the organization since Durban. The Congress was also technologically up privatization. There were numerous other speakers on to speed, with a dedicated website and Randall Howard highlighted the struggle seafarers issues before we moved into blog, online photos and video, Twitter, of unions in Mexico and elsewhere around motions referred on by the executive. and full wireless internet access, with the world to defend their rights. There were a number that were passed by translations available in Arabic, English, He said the ITF would not tolerate the acclaimation or rejected. This was followed French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, blatant violation of human and trade by the election of officers, and General Russian, Spanish and Swedish. union rights. Murders of trade unionists in Business. Congress decides ITF policy for the next Colombia are commonplace, in Costa Rica It was noted that the Executive were four years. It also elects office holders such ITF-affiliated dockers face a Government disappointed at the quality of facilities as the President, Vice Presidents, General takeover and in Mexico “yellow unions” provided, because a number of important Secretary and Executive Board, along with were signing “protection agreements” items were unable to be addressed due representatives on the section committees. intended to collude with the employer but to delays. It was noted this was not a At this congress there were 1376 not protect the worker. reflection on the ITF team responsible participants from 368 trade unions from Another notable speaker was ITF executive for organizing the event, but the venues 112 countries. member Bentos Bahena, General Secretary technical ability. of the ATM Electric Urban Transport Union.

30 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS

“2010: International Year of the Seafarer” The following were elected to the Dockers Did you know? was the last topic of the day and Section Board: The greater area of Mexico City has the conference was advised that the Paddy Crumlin (Australia) – Chairman 21,163,226 inhabitants (2009 census) International Maritime Organization Les Lindgren (Sweden) – Vice Chair making it the third largest metropolitan (IMO) had declared 25 June as R. Familathe (USA) – Vice Chair area in the world after Tokyo and International Day of the Seafarer. Verbeeck (Belgium) – Womens Rep Seoul. Mexico City itself has 8,841,916 O. Stokka (Norway) – Young Workers Dockers Section Conference – Saturday 7 inhabitants. August General business was also discussed and It’s the eighth highest city in the world, at Weekend topics we attended included the a statement released by the Congress an altitude of 2,216 metres above sea level. Dockers Section Conference on Saturday expressing solidarity with the port One of the less good statistics is that and the Joint Seafarers and Dockers workers of Costa Rica. 28,000 people have been violently killed Conference on Sunday. in Mexico since December 2006, mainly The Dockers Section Conference was Seafarers’ and Dockers’ Conference - casualties of the drug war, which is opened by Chair Paddy Crumlin of the Sunday 8 August causing international concern. MUA. The adoption of the agenda was Dockers and seafarers unions from around passed by acclaimation. the globe voted to accept an overhaul of The average Mexican woman works an Frank Leys gave a report on the activities the ITF Flag of Convenience campaign average of 92 hours a week, including 54 of the Secretariat, with a dedication to the which will be the first major update since in the home. The average Mexican man late Pedro Zamora. The Chair then called 1998. works 67 hours including 15 in the home. for a minutes silence in memory of Pedro It will be known as the Mexico City Policy and in recognition of dockworkers killed once ratified. 21,529,464 Volkswagens were on the job trying to make a living in their The new policy was approved as it sets out manufactured between 1945–2003, and industry. to create a better balance between unions the last VW Beetles were manufactured in Several unions spoke on how they in beneficial ownership and labour supply Puebla, Mexico, on 30 July 2003. were challenging the negative effects countries in order to provide protection for of “liberalization”, privatization and seafarers. In 2009 a total of 101 trade unionists were globalization. ITF Marine Co-ordinator Steve Cotton said murdered around the world, according to The importance of the support and the new policy would continue to establish research by the International Trade Union solidarity of the global ITF family was closer relationships between seafarers Confederation. illustrated with a graph of worldwide and dockers and their respective unions 48 trade unionists were killed in Colombia, disputes involving the ITF which included and develop methods to advance their 16 in Guatemala, 12 in Honduras, 6 in the Port of Napier dispute from 2007. interests. Mexico, 6 in Bangladesh, 4 in Brazil, Contributions were made on health The Mexico City policy begins to address 3 in the Dominican Republic, 3 in the and safety issues and the importance of the long standing concerns about non- Philippines, one in India, one in Iraq and 1 working towards international safety domiciled seafarers, said Mr Cotton. in Nigeria. standards. He said it includes an understanding that Affiliates also shared their experiences the ITF’s engagement with national flag 240,000 Latin American workers are of tackling health and safety issues vessels is in partnership and consultation killed each year in workplace accidents, including the introduction of training and with unions in those countries and reflects according to the International Trade certification programmes and national their concerns about protecting their Union Confederation. This figure does not legislation. members. include those who die from occupational The meeting determined to continue to The meeting also identified cabotage as diseases or illnesses. A Latin American campaign for comprehensive standards a particular area where much more work worker is killed every two minutes of the in occupational health and safety and was needed, an initiative that received working day, according to calculations. minimum standards of training for support from many unions. dockworkers. The Joint Conference also elected members Several contributions focussed on the to the new governing bodies that the issue of trade union rights, the continual Mexico City policy creates. assaults on affiliates and the need to The Seafarers Charter was also updated fight back wherever this occurs, also the seeking to ensure that seafarers covered necessity to strengthen dockers unions, by ITF agreements have democratic rights not just for the ITF but for the wider union within their Union and within the ITF, and movement. on their vessels. Elections The Mexico City policy is the outcome of almost four years of Union activity There was widespread support for Paddy to enable the Flag of Convenience Crumlin as section chair and as candidate campaign to be run effectively and with for ITF President. One concern was the accountability in the modern shipping potential for conflict of interest if he was industry. elected to both. Paddy responded he did not think there would be a conflict of interest as there were currently executive members who were also section positions.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 31 PORT ROUNDUPS Women Transport Workers Conference Mexico City, Monday 9 August 2010 by Marian Leslie Organizing globally We also signed flags to show our support Organizing globally was another big topic. to the bus drivers in Hong Kong as they As part of the 42nd ITF Congress in It is important for improving started there industrial action the day of Mexico City, a woman transport workers communication with women, women’s the women’s conference. conference was held. committees and the ITF summer school, This year 104 women (24% of congress this also involved getting the younger Women’s elections delegates) were present from 55 countries women transport workers involved. Elections had to be held for the ITF and from 119 unions. This came about as there is an increasing women’s committee, just in the Europe This was an eye opening day for me - number of unorganized women workers. sections. All the other regions did not have when you have women from 55 countries The ITF “Organizing Globally” project to go to the vote as all seats were covered and hear their stories you realize just how target women workers and organizers and by the numbers who put their names lucky we are here in New Zealand. researchers lead campaigns with education forward. The day was started with a warm welcome and development support. I was one of the assistants for this along from transport unionist Rosa Maria There were many speakers during the day with Joanne McCallum from RTBU Hernandez Lopez from the host union and they talked about what it’s like for Australia, this involved handing out who welcomed us all to Mexico City. them in their countries and there working voting papers and checking delegates Rosa then spoke powerfully on the main conditions. Many speakers also thanked were able to vote and counting the voting issues that Mexican women have to their male co-workers and the support papers. face in the work place, violence, sexual they get from them. Mich-Elle Myers from the MUA is one of harassment, torture and exploitation been Some of the issues that were brought up the regional representatives from the Asia the main ones. by the speakers included the following: Pacific region. She also said that people are going missing In the Hong Kong bus drivers union there Mich-Elle has done a lot for the women and/or are falsely imprisoned. are only 1100 female drivers and 17,777 both in Australia and in the Pacific region Around one million workers have no male drivers. There are no female toilets in as well as being involved in White Ribbon health benefits and work for reduced any of their depots. Day (ending violence against women) in wages if they do have any benefits. The Female airline stewards in some countries Australia. workers have to work hard to keep their have to leave the job at the age 35 where I wish her all the best in this role and hope contracts. a male steward can stay around 45-50. we can work more closely together to get Only 44% of women are in the work force Female air stewards also feel that the our members involved in the ITF and get in Mexico with the average age been 35-44. uniforms that they are made to wear are our women more involved. Must women are left at home to do the not suitable. They are not allowed to wear The day ended with the seafarers from the house work and look after the family, trousers and find the uniform close fitting women’s conference having a dinner. This this has resulted in many women not and short, meaning they are seen more as a was a good time to sit and talk with the learning a trade/job, and reduced training, sex object then a flight steward. other and learn what we do in our jobs. resulting in lower wages. In Pakistan a lot of women did not join Please note that 25 November is the UN Most women have to work part time and the union as it was male dominated work International Day for the Elimination of a lot of that is in jobs they are unfamiliar place, and family was a issue in this too. violence against women and 21 March with. They often have to work with toxic Privatization was an issue for many International Women’s Day. I know that metals. women workers, who asked why you will support both of those days. successful ports were being sold off from Women facing serious issues public ownership. A lot of women have to move away from We then went through the remits that were home (no family support) to get a job put to the women’s conference. One I’ve meaning they have no family around already talked about regarded stopping them, this can lead to the violence and violence against women. sexual harassment. The other big one to come up was the Before getting a job they may even be death of a young woman South African asked to prove that they are not pregnant. cadet at sea in suspicious circumstance. If a woman is pregnant and has an One of the African delegates talked on abortion she can be imprisoned with no this but had to stop as she was reduced trial. to tears. The young women disappeared At this congress we rejected all forms of after she reported she had been raped by a violence against women and violation of senior officer. human rights. Particular reference The congress wants a full report on the Outgoing ITF President Randall Howard issue to be carried out and made public said women have the right to be equal and to stop violence against women. with any male and that we must set a We had a presentation from Alicia precedent for women and keep to it, and Castro about what was happening with show the way for the young women to the Mexican airline Mexicana that had come though the ITF. financial problems and the women’s conference pledged our support to the Mexicana workers.

32 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz ITF Wellington Waterfront by John Whiting

Port Company - CentrePort We have been engaged in long-standing discussions with the Port Company around their proposals to implement work place changes. These negotiations started in early 2009 following the economic down turn, and also included the local RMTU Branch. The Company’s original position was a wish list of some fifty proposed changes up to and including contracting work out. We have been working hard at whittling away at the wish list, seeking to minimise the changes and look for the maximum possible gains from the process. We were successful in continuing to negotiate in good faith despite an attempt to impose a formal consultation process Heavy weather on us. Later a six month period elapsed arising from the members decision not to MUNZ member Mike Will forwarded this A total of 11 MUNZ members aboard the vote on the proposals until the Company’s picture of his vessel the Reflect Resolution, ship. voice transmission system for straddle taken from the chase boat Ocean Pioneer The vessel “shoots” data in a grid pattern tasks was improved to an acceptable level. in the Tasman sea, 100 miles off New Ply- along the swell, apparently a bit like a fish Serious money and resources have been mouth in the Raglan prospect. finder. applied to what is really a ”Guinea Pig” The vessels were carrying out seismic This involves two dimensional and three system and substantial improvement has work for Anadarko, with other work dimensional soundings, from “guns” occurred. carried out in the Bounty Trough, Great towed behind Vessel with a “streamer” ten After a period of some 18 months the Southern Ocean, and Cook Strait, since kilometres behind the ship that picks up final proposals were considered by the November 2009. data and sends back for computer analysis combined Unions membership on 3 The Reflect Resolution was built in 1982 and potential drilling. August 2010 and were endorsed by a and was then known as the Bernia. Mike writes: “We have encountered some majority. It is Ice class 1, and was built in Canada. rough weather, it never looks the same The work place changes include the Now owned by Norfield Shipping (Nor- when you take a photo, and I have had my addition of half an hour to the straddle way) and leased to Reflect (Singapore). eyes shut a couple of times when we have drive time with limitations on shifts longer The Reflect Resolution has a crew of 42 fallen off some waves(harden up!). Our than eight hours. living together for 35 days, consisting of Cooks have not missed a meal the whole Also the addition of nine and eleven hours six different nationalities that two of our time on here and deserve a medal for their to the variables of shift length. There are MUNZ members cook for. efforts.” also some changes around foremen’s work areas and terminal opening hours. The plus side of the equation includes increasing the superannuation subsidy from 7% to 8% for all cargo workers, immediate addition of three P24 Those retiring include long-standing permanents, and a retirement provision MUNZ members Danny Curtis, Pat Huaki, enabling long service members to go with Tommy Okeroa, John Whiting, and Dave a retirement allowance. Winton. This process involves a first for us, in that Also going will be long-standing RMTU each P40 retiring will be replaced from our members George Liska and Zollie Miklos. P24 ranks, who will also be replaced from The new P24s include Hank Elliott our casual ranks. and Darryl Maddock (both previously We believe that this negotiated model employed by Capital City Stevedores and provides an excellent workplace pathway laid off due to downsizing) and Jason Simi for retirement of long serving members (made redundant when Pacifica closed its with those who have done the hard yards Wellington operation). moving into the vacancies. Good to see these loyal members staying in the industry and securing permanent positions. More will be following into permanent jobs as the retirements take place.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 33 PORT ROUNDUPS Wellington Seafarer’s Rail campaign Seafarers Scholarships attracts positive Applications for the 2011 Seafarer’s by Mike Clark Scholarships are now open. response Three scholarships for students are KiwiRail available each year as part of the Seafarers The Kaitiaki dry dock in Brisbane has Union Scholarship. A public meeting in South Dunedin on been extended for around 5 days due to One $5000 scholarship is available Monday 12 July to support the RMTU complications with the tank repairs. We annually for study at a New Zealand campaign to build new trains for Auckland are currently working on dry dock agree- University through Universities New in New Zealand workshops attracted ments for Arahura, which is booked into Zealand - Te Pokai Tara. around 50 people. Auckland 23 August - 2 September. The Regulations and application form are The message they heard was that Arahura will depart Wellington at 0800 available from the website Dunedin people will have to stand up http://www.universitiesnz.ac.nz/scholarships/seafarers Saturday 21 August and arrive Devonport and fight to make this goal a reality, with 0400 Monday 23 August. The closing date is 1 December 2010. this years local body elections and next Departing Auckland on 2 September it Two $3000 scholarships are available years national elections providing an will arrive back in Wellington on Saturday annually for study at a Polytechnic or opportunity to apply political pressure. 5 September and be back on the run 1825 Institute of Technology. The Maritime Union of New Zealand Sunday 5 September, subject to change. A Seafarers Scholarship ITP application (MUNZ) is supporting the RMTU There is concern with some members form can be downloaded at the Maritime campaign and MUNZ General Secretary pulling out of the Union. We are work- Union website www.munz.org.nz or by Joe Fleetwood, visiting from Wellington, ing through the issues and if they can’t writing to the Trustees at the address addressed the meeting on free trade issues. be resolved we will be pushing hard to below. He told the audience that they needed to have these individuals excluded from any For 2010 (2011 study year) application get behind the Hillside workers campaign increases gained in the next negotiations. forms should be returned to the Seafarers and demand that politicians listen. Scholarship Trustees, c/o Maritime He said the push for free trade policies Strait Shipping Union of New Zealand, PO Box 27004, was largely responsible for the situation Wellington, New Zealand. where jobs were threatened due to Rumour has it that Sheryl and Peter El- Closing Date is 4 December 2010. unbalanced economic policies. lison are overseas looking at another ves- Applicants must be members of the sel, no one will confirm or deny this. The Maritime Union of New Zealand, or of the vessels Monte Stella and Santa Regina are New Zealand Seafarers Union Inc or of the currently down on passenger numbers and New Zealand Seamens Union Industrial freight, which is a reflection of the current Union of Workers, who are or were by situation of the entire industry. occupation seafarers; or the children or grandchildren of any member, as above. NIWA The Tangaroa is in Singapore for a lengthy refit, crews still working their rosters mending nets, lines and painting on the Kaharua. While in Wellington they will be accomodated ashore if they are out of porters, which all are. Bargaining notice has been issued as the agreement expires end of October.

Centreport As reported at the last stopwork meet- ing MUNZ RMTU and EPMU have been in talks with management over trying to make monetary savings. This has been a challenging exercise over a number of months culminating in a deal being put to members in August which was accepted.

Offshore We wait with bated breath for some good news work wise in the oil and gas sector. I have been ringing MUA officials and also offshore companies with no concrete results except verbal assurances that things will pick up in the third quarter of the year which we are now basically in. Joe Fleetwood and I will be having further www.facebook.com/maritimeunion discussions with the MUA and hope to have more information soon.

34 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS Gisborne Mount Maunganui Tauranga by Dein Ferris By Eddie Cook well and they show their appreciation try- ing to get more people to join us and get Since our last report the Branch has been Our branch is finally starting to get ahead this Branch growing due to the hard work ticking over with interport transfers to after all this time and slowly but surely that we have put in which is finally paying Napier, Port Chalmers, Bluff and Nelson, building up its membership. dividends. interspersed with our Plywood vessels and We are getting more members every week We are still waiting on our court case half a dozen or so Kiwifruit ships, the last or two. outcome and NZL to get the right to set up of which we completed in August. We are in negotiations with C3, Te Manu their terminal at Sulphur Point and hope- We are now into a quiet period with only a Toroa, and CRS which is NZL at Sulphur fully will be all sorted out soon which will couple of ply vessels on the horizon. Point and Mount Maunganui and also a be really good for the branch. Hopefully there will be a few more few other companies to come so we have Thankyou to everyone who has helped to interport tranfers to help supplement our been very busy looking after our members. bring the Branch back from the brink. We earnings. We are also helping with a petition to try now look forward to a bright future as the We have also just completed our local col- and stop the use of Methyl Bromide in the port seems to be forging ahead with the lective agreement, which while you can’t port which is going well. chance of the bigger ships to come here please everyone, considering the state of MUNZ had our banner at the local march which is of course more work to keep our the economy, I think we achieved the best on 28 August against cuts to Quality and members employed and a lot happier. we could. A reasonable result. Funding to Early Childhood Education. The only way for people to beat these Looking forward to spring and a good We would also like to welcome all of our problems that are caused by the Govern- squash season ahead. Ka Kite, Dein. new members. ment and employers is for all workers to This is a great result for us and thank you be in the union and be united. to Sonia our new office lady who is help- If any of you members out there who ing us sort things out in the office. know of people who might need a Union There is still a lot of Mediation to come, refer them to us and we will only be to as we are looking after our members very glad to help in any way possible.

Maritime Union Mount Maunganui Tauranga Branch Secretary Eddie Cook joined thousands of Tauranga people protesting against National Government cuts to early childhood education, 28 August 2010 (photo courtesy of Bay of Plenty Times)

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 35 PORT ROUNDUPS

retiring. Noel has worked tirelessly to keep are being held and branch member Alan Port Chalmers PCCS members in the Union as they work McDonald is standing for the Otago around different parts of the port and the Regional Council. country. Members should be aware that the Otago Dunedin Noel never took a backward step and kept Regional Council are the owners of Port the branch well informed of any breaches Otago. by Phil Adams of the contract. Having a union member elected to the He will be sorely missed on the job and Regional Council will benefit the Port Greetings from the south. This winter has we wish him a long and happy retirement. and our members as well as the people of not been as fierce as others and as we look Our job now is to find a suitable Otago. forward to warmer weather, the work in replacement delegate at PCCS. So remember Alan McDonald when port has been steady. It is distressing that the Oyang 70 saw her casting your vote in the local elections. last port in Dunedin, where our members Port Otago from Port Chalmers Cargo Services Dunedin North electorate worked aboard her. Speaking of elections, local Labour MP The terminal is going through the normal Accidents like this bring home the dangers Pete Hodgson is to retire before the next quiet period. of the fishing industry in the Southern election and as a result his replacement is The Port Company have two new 4-high Ocean. being sought. straddles and at the time of writing Our commisserations go to the families of Two aspirants for the Labour nomination another two Kalmar 4-high straddles will those lost at sea and drowned as a result of for Dunedin North addressed our last stop arrive shortly. this maritime disaster. During the quiet patches it is an work meeting. Both presented themselves well and either would make a fine MP. opportunity for training and maintenance. Clothing The terminal is now down to 3 cranes as There were some questions at the meeting the first crane has been dismantled and The branch has polo shirts, t-shirts, hats but the biggest cheer was when the editor sold off for scrap and spare parts. and beanies and is ordering bosun jackets of this magazine got up and reminded with our logo on them. them of where Labour had come from and PCCS The jackets are sold at half price $55 and how they had let workers down over the the t-shirts also at half price ($10), please years. Port Chalmers Cargo Services is still contact me if you require any of the above. His speech was stirring stuff (I think he relatively busy with logs, fish, fertilizer may be a member of the Alliance Party.) and out of port transfers. Local Body Elections But it was a good meeting and even Long serving PCCS delegate Noel Currie though the candidates may have been This October the local body elections has decided to hang up his hook and is taken aback by what he stated they agreed with much of what he said.

Maritime Union of New Zealand Port Chalmers Dunedin Branch retirement function, Wednesday 8 September 2010, from left: Ross Tangney (Bluff Branch guest), Keith Currie (retiring member), Maritime Union National President Phil Adams, Terry Osborne (Bluff Branch guest), George Meikle (retiring member), Port Chalmers Dunedin Branch President Ian Quarrell, Harley Webster (retiring member), David Dick (retiring member and former branch President), Steve Webster (retiring member), Ray Fife (Assistant General Secretary and Bluff guest), Rick Richan (retiring member), Cyril Todd (retiring member), Noel Currie (retiring member), Harry Holland (Bluff guest)

36 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS

Maritime Union of New Zealand Port Chalmers Dunedin Branch members at the 24 July 2010 workers rights rally at Dunedin Railway Station

Negotiations The officials would like to thank the many Queenstown Unit The collective agreement at Port Otago members who took the effort to ensure The Queenstown Unit has some vacancies was ratified at a joint stopwork meeting of MUNZ was well represented. at the moment. If you are interested the combined unions on 29 September. Also a thank you to Bluff Branch who call Ian Quarrell on 021472021 or Alan One good thing to come out of sent a delegation and supplied a speaker, Middleditch on 034728753. negotiations is the involvement of the Assistant General Secretary Ray Fife, We are currently in discussions with the national General Secretary Joe Fleetwood which went down well with the crowd. Lakes District Council in regard to some of whose contributions have been extremely our backyard which the Council contend helpful and who has met a lot of the Sick List they own. A meeting in Queenstown of all members during his visits down here. Our current sick list is Ken Olsen, Paul interested parties will be held soon. Mount and Bill Napier, we wish them all a Fairness at Work speedy recovery and all the best. That’s about it from Port Chalmers as we On Sunday 22 August a large group of head into spring. We face challenges both MUNZ Port Chalmers Dunedin Branch Sports Tourney on the political front and with the Port Company. members attended the Fairness at Work Remember Port Chalmers is to host next Rally in Dunedin. As was seen at the Fairness at Work years Interport sports tourney, so we march, if we stay unified the rewards will The march went from the Dental School hope to see a large contingent from the to the Octagon where we listened to come. That has been our approach on the north in Port. See ad in this edition of the waterfront and at sea ever since our Union good speakers and rank and filers and Maritimes. musicians. was formed. It was interesting to hear about the Retirement function struggles of other unions. We recently held a retirement function for several long time union members who retired last year.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 37 PORT ROUNDUPS

Reform’, standards have slipped This was what was asked and I included Napier somewhat and we are now accepting the relevant documentation to support my Third World safety standards, which this argument and I might point out the IMO by Bill Connelly Union believes is totally unacceptable. information was released in 2007. There is now a saying that with the advent I am not holding my breath for an answer. Around and about of ‘Port Reform’ ’safety has gone by the board for the sake of expediency.’ With the Stress and fatigue The busiest part of the year is now coming release of the ‘Code of Practice for Health In passing I also had previously asked to a close for the port of Napier, which and Safety in Port Operations’ in 1997 the a question of Catherine Taylor, the then services all the main cargoes from the Union thought that some normality had Deputy Director Development and Hawke’s Bay and other districts such as returned to safety on the waterfront, but Business Services of the Maritime Safety Manawatu, Wanganui and more recently sadly no. Authority, she is now the Director of Taranaki, as a result of the Fonterra In August 2008 Maritime New Zealand Maritime New Zealand. decision. (MNZ) saw fit to release access to a vessel I was invited to attend a seminar in April by means of a ‘Box Rigged’ gangway, of 2005 in relation to’Maritime Worker C3 which is totally contrary to clause 2.5.1 (b) Fatigue’ and although I was impressed of the Code of Practice. Their current Collective Agreement expires with the content of the seminar I was As one of the original draftee’s I was on 31 December 2010. somewhat dismayed that the emphasis disgusted and made my intentions known Hawke’s Bay Stevedoring Services Limited was on seamen and the fishing industry, to the then General Secretary Trevor Their current Collective Agreement with little or no regard for the shore based Hanson that Napier would not be abiding (Schedule F) has been rolled over for personnel that service the vessels. by the MNZ directive and that none of twelve months, until the 31 July 2011. I made this point I my letter dated 20 May our members would be boarding a vessel Our members employed by this company 2005 and requested that any formulated with a ’Box Rigged’ gangway, as it was have been in continual employment on a guidelines on stress and fatigue considered unsafe. regular basis and their idle time content is management be applied to, implemented I also informed the local Maritime Safety minimal, approximately 4%. and included as an integral part of the Inspector, Mr. Andrew Lo. ’Code of Practice for Health and Safety in This matter was discussed in full at our Kelcold Limited Port Operations’. next National Executive meeting and then No answer as yet. Their agreement expires on 1 December became national policy that no member My comment is that prior to ‘Port Reform’, 2010. of the Maritime Union of New Zealand Napier had a safety record second to (MUNZ) would be boarding any vessel none, we had not had a death in the port, Maritime New Zealand and Box Rigged with a ’Boxed Rigged’ gangway, a policy associated with the industry, for 28 years. Gangways which stands to this day. Since 1989, not only have two of our The question for Maritime New Zealand This problem continues and the only way members been killed , but also three is: Why did you see fit to adopt an to stop it is to refuse to board a vessel until RMTU members. My message to MNZ International Labour Organisation such time as the gangway is rigged safely. is to stop implementing Third World (ILO) standard and choose to ignore an This is the contents of a question that standards in New Zealand and get off your International Maritime Organisation (IMO) I posed to Maritime New Zealand at a backside and police the legislation you proposal and a further West of England meeting that Wellington Seafarers Branch have in place to protect our membership, ‘Safety Bulletin’ which was first released Secretary Mike Clark and I attended in instead of us and the employer carrying in 1996 covering the subject of gangway May of this year. out the necessary safety policies, which are incidents and their rigging? Prior to “Port Reform” in 1989 the part of New Zealand law. My comment is it seems ridiculous to Maritime Safety Authority (MSA) was We are waiting. second to none with regard to worldwide adopt an ILO standard when the IMO is safety aboard vessels and access to them. recommending exactly what is contained Since then with the advent of ‘Port in our own Code of Practice.

Maritime Union and RMTU members at Port of Napier with NZCTU President Helen Kelly, September 2010, discussing the Government’s attacks on workers rights

38 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS Lyttelton by Les Wells

Editor’s note: this column was submitted by Les for the previous edition of the Maritimes but missed due to the oversight of this editor. Apologies to Les and any concerned branch members, we reprint it now in the interests of “better late than never.” For updates on the Canterbury earthquake, see pages 10 and 11.

Lyttelton Port Company One of the major changes that took place earlier this year was the retirement of George Findlay after 40 years in the Industry. George was one of our Assessors in the terminal. It has been rumoured that George held 60 competences to his name which is a great achievement. Of these 60 achievements not one of them was for manual work. Our office manager Anzac Day Parade 2010 in Lyttelton with veteran Maritime Union and Vindi Association members, front row Terry Knight, attended George’s morning tea at the Steve Boore, John Laimmon, Don Turner, back row Peter Weller, Eric Tate, Baden Norris, Bob Sullivan (submitted by Terry Knight). Anyone wanting more info on the Vindi Association for former seamen who trained on the TS Vindicatrix, terminal, she arrived the next day with contact the Maritimes magazine and we can pass on Terry’s contact details. his wool hook, it was just as rusty now as it was two weeks on a wool job in the old days. All jokes aside, on a personal note I would Pacifica like to thank George for his support over I have been approached by management the years. We never got enough when to have a look at what is happening with in wage round talks for him, but when the Company since the Kent has finished More Maritime it came for ratification George would up. One of the things we were lucky with support the negotiations in the end. I wish was when we put the agreement together Union photos you all the best in your retirement George the Kent was not part of the Equation. So and Camp Mother will always live on in it should not have that much effect on the online at C‚ÄìGroup. men. Currently LPC are in the process of putting www.flickr.com/ in the foundation for our Gantry Crane to C3 Limited work rail, this should be finished by June of next year. Have been occasionally busy but as always maritimeunion Three of our men from LPC who are fire- everything arrives in 3 days which would fighters in Lyttelton took on the Sky Tower seem to be the same everywhere. It would earlier this year, to Tim Stephen, Brad be good to have the ship over the week. Fletcher and Craig Smith we wish you guys all the best, we know a lot of practice LSS has gone into this. All the best from Local I believe the men are doing out of Port 43 Branch. transfers plus Cross Hiring in port between the other companies.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 39 PORT ROUNDUPS

Bluff Branch MUNZ member Tammi Topi hooking on ingot metal to go aboard ship (photo by Harry Holland)

Bluff Branch MUNZ member Ray Crown enjoying the day (photo by Harry Holland)

40 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz BRANCH CONTACTS

Whangarei MSC has become a significant service for Mobile: 021 855121 Bluff the port since it established a shipping Fax: 09 459 4972 service in May 2008. Address: PO Box 397, Whangarei This will ensure that South Port has an Email: [email protected] by Ray Fife ongoing role to play in servicing the Auckland Seafarers Phone: 09 3032 562 This National Government is now finally large amount of containerised product generated in the lower part of the South Fax: 09 3790 766 showing its true colours with the new Mobile: 021 326261 employment laws that are attacking the Island. Address: PO Box 1840, Auckland working class of New Zealand. We have entered into negotiations for Email: [email protected] a collective agreement for the 27 new It has been a long time coming but as Auckland Local 13 sure as night follows day it was going to members of our Branch. Phone: 09 3034 652 happen. We are not sure how long this will take as Fax: 09 3096 851 we have started from scratch in putting Mobile: 021 760887 The proposed changes will have an Address: PO Box 2645, Auckland adverse affect on all workers rights together a collective agreement. Email: [email protected] at work and are a backward step in Southland Stevedoring Mount Maunganui employment relations. Phone: 07 5755 668 Proposed new changes include extending The port has been busier than normal over Fax: 07 5759 043 90 day trial period with no right of appeal Mobile: 0274 782308 the past 6 months, helped by increases Address: PO Box 5121, Mt. Maunganui against unfair dismissal to all workplaces, in export log volumes and the import of Email: [email protected] union access will require employer fertiliser, add to that woodchips, stock consent, up to one weeks annual holiday food, containers and aluminum. Gisborne Local 38 Mobile: 025 6499697 can be traded for cash, requirements to This has seen our members working Address: 5 Murphy Road, Gisborne produce a sick note for one day of sick longer hours than they would normally at Email: [email protected] leave and removing the right of workers this time of the year. New Plymouth to take reasonable breaks during their To help meet the peak work periods Mobile: 021 479269 working day. we have at numerous times inter port Address: PO Box 659, New Plymouth The proposed new legislation puts transfers working here from most ports Email: [email protected] pressure on all workers and we are once throughout New Zealand, even our Napier again facing issues of brain drain and brothers from as far away as Whangarei Phone/Fax: 06 8358 622 youth dropping out of the workforce have been down to enjoy our southern Mobile: 027 6175441 Address: PO Box 70, Napier altogether. hospitality. Email: [email protected] Unfortunately, we now have the situation Log volumes through the port have where the Government is avoiding a increased significantly over the past Wellington Seafarers Phone: 04 3859 288 debate about how the workplace can few months with the vessel Timaru Star Fax: 04 3848 766 contribute to solving the country’s loading a full shipment of logs. As far as Mobile: 021 364649 productivity issues and instead it relies on we know it was also the single-largest Address: PO Box 27004, Wellington the traditional cost-cutting and flexibility consignment of export logs to move on Email: [email protected] measures. any one vessel over the past decade. Wellington Waterfront The log boom is forecast to continue in the Phone: 04 8017 619 Southport Fax: 04 3848 766 immediate future with China, South Korea Mobile: 021 606379 The port company is spending $6 million and India being the main buyers of logs. Address: PO Box 2773, Wellington Email: [email protected] to buy a Liebherr mobile harbour crane for We have been through these cycles in the past and our members are well aware that the port. Wellington Stores and Warehouse Local 21 The LHM 400 crane will replace the the demand for logs could drop off as fast Phone: 04 3859 520 as it built up. Fax: 04 3848 766 smaller existing Liebherr LHM 320 crane. Address: PO Box 27004, Wellington The company is also buying a $750,000 heavy lift container forklift, taking its Nelson Fax: 03 5472104 container forklift fleet to five. Mobile: 027 6222691 Address: PO Box 5016, Nelson Email: [email protected]

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 Address: PO Box 813, Timaru Email: [email protected]

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 | Spring 2010 | 41 PORT ROUNDUPS Interport Sports Tournament 13–17 February 2011 Port Chalmers, Dunedin, New Zealand Come down and enjoy a week of fishing, or golf, or darts and pool. We have fishing nights for all to enjoy our lovely blue cod and other fresh catches. Wives and partners welcome and a good day out is planned. Players can enjoy all this for $250 (four days of fishing) or $150 (golf and indoor sports.) Lots of fun, meet MUNZ members from other ports – Registrations close end of October 2010. More info contact Winky Waugh on 03 4727421 or 0273137199 mobile Email [email protected] Mail 23 Delphic Street, Sawyers Bay, Dunedin

Officers of the MUNZ Veteran's It is the policy of the veteran's that no Veteran's Corner Association elected at the AGM were: money received by branch donations President Doug Phillipps, Secretary Terry will be used for overseas travel and only by Terry Ryan Ryan, Vice President Eric Dunne, with internally in the future to attend veterans executive committee Dave Mora, Bill meetings and rallies. The 3rd annual meeting of the Veteran's Cunningham, Barry Prescott, Ray Munce Sadly we had to turn down an invitation Association was held at the Pt Chevalier and Denis Carlisle. from the Pacific Coast Pensioners RSA on 13 June 2010 during the annual Disappointment was expressed with Association – ILWU to attend and address Waterfront Reunion celebrations. funding results, given that the 2009 MUNZ their 2010 conference in San Francisco It was interesting to note at the inaugural Conference had endorsed the veteran's this September in solidarity, for health AGM the veterans had 27 members, by the remit on funding without dissent. At the and financial reasons. The Association 2nd AGM in 2009 this had grown to 284, time of writing this report only Local 13, will strive to maintain this valuable with the 2010 AGM boasting 365 members. Lyttelton, Wellington Seafarers and Timaru international connection. Since that June meeting the membership had fulfilled conference obligations. Unfortunately many old timers believe at the time of going to press numbered 376 However for the rest we can only assume they need a personal invitation to join the with potential for many more. wheels turn a little slower in some parts of Veteran's Association and keep in touch Sadly many members are reaching the red the country. and up to date with what is going on. zone and final farewell tributes were paid The meeting attended by 40 members That's a myth, and anybody who was to fallen comrades Cliff Mitchell, Derek determined not to institute a fee for associated with the waterside or shipping Brunning, Bruce Phillips, Hugh Barrow, veteran members at this stage. sides of our industry are welcome. If you Matt Buchanan, Ben Wotherspoon, Sean It was felt that the veterans hold a special know anyone in that category encourage Busher, Roger Wilson, Dean Price and Mac place in the organization, and should them to write to PO Box 2645 Auckland Walters. be treated akin to life members having or ring Fay the Local 13 office manager on While membership numbers are growing already paid their dues over many years of (09) 3034652 to have a membership form throughout the country we have still service. So while initially this will restrict sent to anywhere in New Zealand. been unable to establish branches outside activities, the Association will be able of Auckland. This will be the aim for to function effectively if the Conference 2010–2011. resolution is respected.

42 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz PORT ROUNDUPS MUA Bulk and General Conference 11–13 May 2010 by Ray Fife and unions need to be part of a national Arising from the discussion groups a training plan that contains what we want number of recommendations were put to The Maritime Union of Australia Bulk in it. conference in the form of resolutions. and General Conference was held in He said that the biggest issue facing us Melbourne on 11-13 May 2010. is the lashing and unlashing of cargo, Safety The conference was attended by around employers now only want men who only Pursue stevedoring regulations and map 75 delegates from every bulk and general do the lash. The next step is not contractors every port to see who has been trained as port throughout Australia. doing the lash but seafarers. H&S Reps, how many reps and how often The MUA National Officials as well as Assistant National Secretaries Warren they meet. most National Council members were in Smith and Ian Bray gave company reports, attendance. outlining the issues that bulk and general Manning This was the first time this type of workers are facing particularly on health conference has ever been held in Australia. and safety, training and induction. Mapping of all manning levels on all The idea was to discuss issues and develop It was highlighted that most deaths on the operations, functions and vessel type. recommendations that directly affect waterfront around the world occur in Bulk Establish a national campaign on manning. bulk and general workers in the current and General Stevedoring. political and industrial environment in There is a need for a National Code Intimidation and Harassment Australia. of Practice in Australia and that all National campaign be undertaken against MUA national secretary Paddy Crumlin stevedoring occupations require an the systematic bullying and harassment opened the conference giving an overview appropriate qualification as well as a from employers. on what is happening nationally in license where necessary. Australia as well as internationally. The conference broke into discussion Organising capacity He said that there is external and internal groups where discussed at length were issues that have to be dealt with at the issues affecting Bulk and General Develop at all levels of the union. this conference, and it is about the talk workers right now, particularly the translating into action. aggressive attitude the employers are now Trade Union Training Paddy said that the bosses are pitching taking around the country that is having Increase levels of union education, this to worker against worker. a damaging affect on health and safety as be delivered within the Branches. Training is pathetic in Australia, workers well as a general decline in the workers are the victims because of a lack of control moral on the job.

Delegates at the May 2010 Maritime Union of Australia Bulk and General Conference (photo courtesy of MUA)

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 43 HISTORY The Maritime Union of New Zealand, some key dates and history by Hector Thorpe Millar started the Jubilee Steam Ship 1914 – William ‘Tom’ Young elected MUNZ 3111 Company by chartering the steamships National Secretary Storm, Bellinger and Planet to counter New Zealand born Young was to serve a 1876 (The Federated Seamen’s Union of the scabs employed by the Northern three-month prison sentence for his part Australasia) Steam Ship Company and within the two in the strike. Young was also imprisoned years it took to rid the scabs he had also in 1917 for inciting a seditious strike The same year General Custer made his established the NZ Maritime Council, a by Wellington seamen against military final stand, the Federated Seamen’s Union union alliance which included Seafarers, conscription. of Australasia was starting theirs. Watersiders’ Miners’ Railwaymen, and the Over the following years, Young became Like many other unions, seamen used Mercantile Marine Officers’ union. an executive member of the Labour Party “Australasia” in their title to encompass and the NZ Alliance of Labour. workers from the ‘Seven Colonies of 1890 – Australasian Maritime strike After leading the union for thirteen years, Australasia’ a common term used in that there is a well-known tale that Young era to describe the self-Governing Colonies The Australasian Steam Ship Owners was unceremoniously thrown out and of Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Association were also organised and when down the stairs of the union rooms when South Australia, Northern Territory, the they took on the Marine Officers’ Union, it defeated in election by Fintan Walsh. Crown Colony of Western Australia and became the catalyst for a massive Maritime the self-Governing New Zealand Colony. Strike involving over 50,000 unionists in Australia and 8,000 unionists in NZ. 1927 – Fintan Patrick Walsh, ‘The Black Such was the solidarity the seamen Prince’ elected President retained Australasia in their name until The first major nationwide labour dispute 1943, long after Australia became a Nation in Australasia ended in defeat. After the Walsh was born at the Bay of Plenty in 1901. strike, wages were slashed, strikers were and at the age of 33, gained control of Australia/New Zealand maritime blacklisted, the Maritime Council fell apart the Seamen’s Union and remained its solidarity continues, in part because those and the unions were crushed. However, it President until his death 36 years later. early pioneers set a solid foundation for started unions on a political path of action. Walsh also became Vice President of the others to follow. New Zealand Alliance of Labour and However, traditional history does not 1894 – William Belcher elected General records indicate he spent much of his time recognise the contributions these unionists Secretary fighting ‘Big Jim’ Roberts of the Waterside made towards workplace conditions, When Millar was elected a Member of Workers Federation for control. social conditions or towards our Parliament for the Liberal Party, where Walsh was to hit his straps with the maritime trade and industry, that credit he remained for 18 years, 33-year-old election of the first Labour Government in seems reserved for the industrialist, the Englishman, William Belcher became 1935, and the introduction of compulsory corporations and politicians. General Secretary of the Union. unionism in 1936. From our Australasian whakapapa many Once Millar became Minister of Labour, He was also President of the Wellington worthy Unions have united to create Belcher used the Industrial Conciliation Trades Council and President of the very the Maritime Union of New Zealand, and Arbitration Act 1894 to get rid of large Wellington Clerical Workers’ Union. this article briefly concentrates on the company scab unions and restore seamen Walsh also served seven years as vice leadership of the Seamen’s section. to the organised fighting force they once President and ten years President of were. the Federation of Labour (FOL) from 1879 – New Zealand Branches formed its inception. If you were to add his Government appointments, Walsh was Two years before the invasion of Parihaka, 1913 – Watersiders’ and Miners’ National a powerful leader in the trade union Victorian Branch President George Strike movement. Sangster arrived from Australia, and Wellington Branch Seamen’s Secretary formed New Zealand branches of the Tom Young headed an organisation 1951 – Waterfront Lockout union. favoured by Watersiders and Miners, the United Federation of Labour. After the hardships of the war years, 1887 – Captain John ’King’ Millar elected When the United Federation of Labour unions wanted a share of the improved General Secretary called a general strike, there were economy. When the arbitration court handed down a general wage increase of 32-year-old John Millar became the first calls from seamen for Tom Young to 15%, which the ship-owners denied the elected full time General Secretary of choose which organisation he wanted Wharfies, the waterfront dispute began. the Federated Seamen’s Union of New to represent; seamen or a striking outfit With a National Government in power, Zealand. his own union was not affiliated too. the Watersiders locked out and Walsh Millar was born in India to Scottish However, seamen eventually joined one unsupportive, it was always going to be parents; his father was a high-ranking month into the strike and Tom Young was a tough battle for National President Jock Officer in the British Army. gaoled shortly there after. The seamen stayed on strike for one month before Barnes, National Secretary Toby Hill and William Belcher pulled the plug and Auckland Branch President Alexander withdrew the seamen, leaving many Drennan. remaining strikers feeling betrayed.

44 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz HISTORY

Over 22 weeks, 20,000 Wharfies and The anti union political climate only After strengthening the Union through union allies fought the largest and longest got worse with three more terms of a amalgamation and solidarity with the industrial conflict in NZ’s history. National Government, which maintained MUA and the ITF, and as one of the Unfortunately, as with the two previous the right wing momentum, smashing the longest serving leaders, Morgan retired the major disputes of 1890 and 1913 it ended trade union movement by introducing following year as Joint National President. in defeat with the union crushed, wages the Employment Contract Act 1991, slashed, union leaders gaoled and many and destroying coastal shipping with 2009 – Triennial Conference 2009 of the strikers either had their jobs taken the Maritime Transport Act 1994, which In opening the conference, Leader of the or were blacklisted. In addition, the removed cabotage. Labour Party Hon Phil Goff acknowledged National Government riding on a wave of Then the privatisation program continued; Trevor Hanson retiring after 20 years patriotism called a snap election and won between 1987-1999, 40 state-owned assets as General Secretary of the Waterfront another term in power. were sold including The New Zealand Workers Union and the Maritime Union of However Dr Tom Bramble editor of Shipping Corporation, State Railways, Air New Zealand. “Never a white flag” (Memoirs of Jock New Zealand, Bank of New Zealand, New MUNZ National President Phil Adams Barnes, Waterfront Leader) finds, “that Zealand Steel, Postbank, Telecom, State while acknowledging delegates also gave over the long term, passivity is far more Insurance, Petrocorp, and the State Forest. special welcome to the overseas guest damaging to the union movement than Morgan addressed these attacks through from Australia, USA, Japan and the UK. defeated upsurges, and that to turn the industrial action, legal action, political He also congratulated the four members fortunes of NZ unionism around requires action, retraining and amalgamation to John O’Neil, former National Vice a revival of the fighting spirit for which like minded industry allies. President, Terry Ryan, retired Assistant the country’s Watersiders were once justly The Seamen’s Union of Australia had done General Secretary, Denis Carlisle retiring renowned”. the same when they amalgamated with Auckland Branch Local 13 President, and Walsh was instrumental in the outcome the Marine Cooks’ Bakers’ & Butchers’ in Trevor Hanson retiring General Secretary, of the ‘51 blue, loved or hated he was the 1983, and the Federated Marine Stewards’ who were receiving life membership of the longest serving leader of the Seamen’s & Pantrymen’s in 1988. union. union and remains a significant figure in (In 1991, when the Professional Divers’ its history. and Waterside Workers’ Federation also 2010 – Maritime Union of New Zealand amalgamated they became the ‘Maritime National Officials 1964 – Bill ‘Pincher’ Martin elected National Union of Australia’) President Morgan’s first merger was in 1989 with National President Phil Adams of Port Chalmers, as wharfie tradition works 41-year-old ‘51 veteran ‘Pincher’ Martin the Federated Cooks and Stewards Union, under the hook as well as being branch was a hands on rank and file man credited which was headed by Jimmy Savage and secretary; General Secretary Joe Fleetwood, with unifying the membership. In 1967, Dave Graham ‘Twiggy’ followed by the Wellington full time National Official; he ended 90 years of independent branch North Shore Ferry employees to form National Vice President Garry Parsloe, activity and formed a National Union, ‘The the ‘New Zealand Seafarers Union.’ The Auckland full time National and Branch New Zealand Seamen’s Union Industrial following year Morgan and National Official; Assistant General Secretary Ray Union of Workers’. Secretary Gerry Evans attempted mergers Fife of Bluff works under the hook and is The following year the union’s first ever with the Harbour Workers Union (HWU) branch secretary. rank-and-file conference took place. and the Waterfront Workers Union (WWU). This did not eventuate however, Conference issues included campaigns for Reference the Auckland Branch of the HWU merged a National Shipping Line, an aggregate www.elections.org.nz wage, more leave, a pension and welfare with the WWU while the other branches of www.nzhistory.net.nz scheme and closer ties with the Seamen’s the HWU eventually went on to form the www.lhp.org.nz Union of Australia. Other pressing Rail Maritime Transport Union (RMTU). www.dnzb.govt.nz issues included the Wahine disaster and Twelve years later in 2002, Morgan with www.mua.org.au Waterside leaders Trevor Hanson and www.munz.org.nz maintaining the union through the 1971 www.teara.co.nz deregistration until it was re-registered Les Wells succeeded at amalgamating the Seafarers and Watersiders, to form www.en.wikipedia.org intact in 1972. Neill Atkinson, Victor Billot, Brian Fitzpatrick, G.W.Ford, the ‘Maritime Union of New Zealand’ In 1973, Pincher resigned and returned to Erik Olssen, Herbert Roth, Pat Walsh. the sea a worker and respected working (MUNZ). class hero. MUNZ like the RMTU are maritime transport unionists affiliated to the New 1973 – Dave Morgan ‘The Hat’ elected Zealand Council of Trade Unions (CTU) National President and the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF). Dave Morgan was elected just in time Attempts to form them into a single to enjoy one and a half years of the one union inside the port gates have not yet term Norman Kirk Labour Government succeeded. before being confronted with nine very long consecutive years of a National Rob 2002 – MUNZ first joint executive Muldoon Government. Conference The difficult times were to continue for Morgan and National Secretary Jimmy An MUA delegation attended this while Woods, with six years of the right in the country for the inaugural meeting wing economics of the Fourth Labour of the Tasman Maritime Federation. The Government dominated with economic objective is to build internationalism via and social change, including Port reform the ITF, supporting Globalising Solidarity, and sales of state assets driven by Roger and forming an ITF regional affiliates Douglas and Richard Prebble. group in the Oceania region.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 45 TECHNOLOGY Free and open source software by Stuart Crawford

This article is an introduction to free, open source software. We will start by having a look at the most common computer operating systems first. When deciding on an appropriate computer operating system there are a few things to consider. Does it support the software I need for my particular use? Does the software available work well with the other software being used? What is the cost? Will the operating systems restrict my freedom to do what I want, or charge money every time I want to do something else? access to the original source code free of Thunderbird is an email client developed Every system has it’s advantages and charge and including the GNU licence for by the Mozilla foundation and is used by disadvantages, so you need to decide what the original components). the French military. fits your needs the best. You will usually find equivalent software Microsoft Windows comprise most of to do what proprietary software on Open Office.org is a suit of office the market, but to me, except for some Windows and OSX do, and for free. applications. As well as it’s own native specialist work, it is not even worth In most cases I think that Linux is the most formats, it supports a number of others, looking at. suitable choice for the home user and often including Microsoft Office formats. On the down side it is expensive, prone to for business too. all sorts of viral and worm attacks, and has The cost is very attractive too – free. Yes, GNUCash is a cash management and a tendency to crash at inappropriate times. some of the software can be a little rough invoicing application, compatible with It’s what is called a proprietary system, around the edges, though by no means is common bank statement export formats. with restrictions placed on users which all of it. make feudalism look positively benign. Yes, the other operating systems have VLC Player is a media player that uses The second major operating system, Apple some good free software available, like the FFmpeg libraries to decode and play OSX, is a Unix-based system that runs Mac Open Office, Blender, Firefox, Thunderbird almost any codec for audio and video. computers and has the best audio visual etc. software on the market. It looks very good In most cases, as with Open Office and Blender 3D content creation suite, used for and like they say, it just works. For the Blender, they were originally written for 3D modeling and animation. serious commercial studio operation this Linux and tend to be more stable there will probably be the right choice and for than on the other operating systems. There The GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation good reason. are a multitude of software solutions for Program.) Though the interface is OSX is however proprietary and almost pretty much any type of application you different, you can use it for everything you all useable software comes at a price with care to think of, ranging from simple used to use Photoshop for, once you learn most of the same restrictions as Windows consumer level, through to professional. how it works. For those who have trouble based software. Below is a list of what I consider to adjusting to the interface, after using The third main option is less well known be some of the best free, open source Photoshop, there is a version called GIMP - but is becoming much more popular. programs for the average computer user. Shop, which is the GIMP made to look like Linux is free as in freedom. Note that some of these programs do not Photoshop. There are many different varieties of work as well on operating systems, other Linux known as distributions, it is not a than Linux based ones. There are a number of other excellent free single operating system as are Windows and open source applications available for and OSX, rather they are independent Firefox is a web browser developed by the desktop design, audio and video editing, operating systems that have in common Mozilla foundation. It’s the second most and many other uses. the usage of the Linux kernel. popular browser after Microsoft Explorer It is primarily developed by the users Some useful websites and runs on all of the main operating themselves. systems. Most software operates under a GNU Website for free and open source software that runs on Windows licence allowing the freedom to copy, Camino is a light and fast web browser for http://www.opensourcewindows.org/ reverse engineer, change, give away or Mac OSX. charge for copies at the users discretion Website for free and open source software that runs on (usually requiring no more than providing Epiphany is a light and fast web browser Mac http://www.opensourcemac.org/ for Linux.

46 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz LETTERS Not in vain

Dear Members, on Merchant Navy Day (3 September) I was fortunate enough to attend the inaugural service of recognition in Wellington, and provided transport for veterans from the Wairarapa who would otherwise have probably not been able to attend. Mr.Ian Dymock (ex-Seamans and later Seafarers Union) finally got a deserved mention as President of the Wellington Merchant Navy Association for his tireless crusade to get the recognition that was so overdue. On reflection, that in itself, is a disgusting period of time after such a sacrifice. Not dwelling on that though, a great day was enjoyed by all in attendance, and we can now all look forward more to September 3 in future knowing the sacrifice was not in vain. Just Merchant Seamen Regards Tony Mowbray There was a good attendance at the Nelson Editor’s note: MUNZ RSA to commemorate the first New Barry asked if we could reprint the Zealand Merchant Navy Day. Everyone following letter to a UK newspaper which in attendance was asked to introduce he was sent by an old lady from his old themselves and give their experiences town. while in the Merchant Navy. I found the article about the MV Coxwold It was a privilege to listen to some of very interesting and moving as my father the older veterans, including the oldest served in her during those terrible days in present who was 87. the convoys. A committee was elected to form the I remember bringing him home from Nelson Branch of the Merchant Navy Preston Hospital after he regained his Association. The “red duster” was proudly eyesight after being blinded. A woman flown and a few minutes silence was held on the train gave him a white feather for to remember those who had perished cowardice, crying: “Why don’t you give during the terrible years of the two World up your seat to this soldier? He is fighting Wars. for his country, you are not.” The New Zealand Government has Merchant seamen wore no uniform, only proclaimed Merchant Navy Day on 3 a Merchant Navy badge. Also, my mother September in line with the UK, Canada belonged to a knitting circle, making socks and Australia. for the services. When she asked if she The great service of the Merchant Navy could have some wool to make my father in the wars has only slowly and belatedly some socks she was told “No, he is only been recognized thanks to the dedication a merchant seaman.” She pulled out her of those such as the Merchant Navy needles and said: “Get knitting.” Association and many others. They are no It was wonderful to see Mike Marsh longer the forgotten service and their place paying tribute to our heroes. I have written in history is now guaranteed. to him. When the men were crying in the More than 4,800 ships sunk, 32,674 waves the Royal Navy were told to leave seafarers of all nationalities perished at them, but the Coxwold stayed and rescued sea, about a quarter of the total number, a them. My father could never speak of it greater sacrifice in relative numbers than and whenever ‘Eternal Father’ was played any other branch of the services in the he always had to leave the room. Second World War. Each September we have a beautiful Among this number were 132 New service at the Seamen’s Memorial on the Zealanders. Two of them, Thomas Burke river bank, to which many of us go and lay and Edward Walls, were only 15 years flowers to the memory of those men who old when their ship was torpedoed off the died. Those who, to many, were regarded coast of Africa in 1942. as ‘just merchant seamen’. Stand tall and proud you merchant men – you will now be remembered in history. Jean Zeese de Bosch Lest we forget, Goole Barry Jackson MUNZ 0004

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Spring 2010 | 47 YOUTH

National Day of Action for Workers’ Rights Wednesday 20 October 2010 www.fairness.org.nz www.munz.org.nz

48 | The Maritimes | Spring 2010 www.munz.org.nz