The

Issue 34 • Winter 2011 MaritimesMagazine of the Maritime Union of New Zealand ISSN 1176-3418

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 1 1951

Maritime Union of New Zealand General Secretary Joe Fleetwood (left) and National President Garry Parsloe (right) present a certificate of appreciation to Australian miners to CFMEU Mining and Energy Division National Vice President Ian Murray at the 1951 60th anniversary commemorations, 18 May 2011 1951 lockout remembered

Maritime unionists gathered in Wellington Both of these guests received special Former union officials represented in May to remember the 1951 waterfront certificates and the personal thanks of included Dave Morgan, Dave Graham, lockout. MUNZ officials for the role played by their Jimmy Woods and Gerard Hill, with an An early evening function on Wednesday unions in the 1951 dispute, supporting apology received from Trevor Hanson 18 May to commemorate the 60th New Zealand workers. and former editor of the Transport Worker anniversary of the struggle was hosted by A special DVD message from ITF President Dick Scott. the Maritime Union. and MUA General Secretary Paddy Historians David Grant and Grace Millar The location was the former board room Crumlin was played on the big screen. were also present, along with the National of the Wellington Harbour Board, which The ILWU were also invited but unable to Executive of the Maritime Union of New is now part of the Wellington Museum attend and also sent a video message of Zealand and rank and file observers who of City and Sea, formerly the Wellington support. were in Wellington attending the national Maritime Museum. Certificates were also presented to New executive meeting. Special guests were veteran 1951 Zealand unions with a connection to the The event was filmed by Rod Prosser and watersiders Mr Charles Finall (aged 89) 1951 dispute including EPMU (miners) Ian Anderson of Community Media, and and his wife Doreen, and Mr Russell represented by Paul Tolich, AWUNZ DVD copies and a YouTube video will be French (aged 84), and his wife Thelma. (laborers) represented by Ray Bianchi, available soon. Maritime Union of New Zealand General RMTU (rail workers) represented by Secretary Joe Fleetwood says one of the Aubrey Wilkinson, NDU (drivers) motives for holding the event was to represented by Sam Huggard, and the acknowledge the support of many of the Meatworkers Union represented by Dave Unions, especially international unions. Eastlake. Two Australian guests who attended Other guests included Labour Party from the international movement were spokesperson Darien Fenton MP, CTU Assistant National Secretary of the President Helen Kelly and CTU Secretary Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) Ian Peter Conway, NZEI Secretary Paul Bray and National Vice President of the Goulter, union lawyer Peter Cranney and CFMEU Mining Division Ian Murray. the Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba Jose Luis Robaina Garcia.

2 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz EDITORIAL A knock at the door

Edition 34, Winter 2011 The editorial is always the last thing that I work on for each issue of the Maritimes. Contents It’s sometimes hard to think of something original to write after 1951 remembered 2 putting all the news and views of other people into the magazine. Editorial 3 National executive report page 5 Tonight though, the problem was solved. In the depths of a General Secretary’s Report 4 southern winter, after 6pm is pitch black outside, a freezing misty National executive report 5 rain is drifting over the city, and there is a forecast for snow. News 8 Families with children are putting them down for the night or ITF 10 Book reviews 15 having dinner. Election statement 16 Then there is the knocking on the door. Who could it be? Port roundups 19 A forlorn young woman in an electricity company jacket stands Retirement savings 27 there and reels off a pitch to get my business. Obituaries 28 I politely decline and she trudges off with a faded automatic smile Letters 31 into the cold darkness. Branch contacts 31 I think to myself that she is likely a casual worker or on commission, probably being paid a pittance. One of the many ‘The Maritimes’ is published quarterly by ITF Week of Action 2011 page 14 the Maritime Union of New Zealand. young people who are grafting for corporates on shabby wages. That’s the thing which it comes down to. ISSN 1176-3418 The corporate managers with their bonuses and golden parachutes, and the big shareholders, won’t be door knocking in National Office: the mid winter night, and nor will their families. PO Box 27004 That is left for the workers – the people who create the wealth, Wellington and who are disadvantaged and used by the system to provide New Zealand riches for a few. Telephone: 04 3850 792 Fax: 04 3848 766 Our industry, the maritime industry, is a demanding industry and all workers in it deserve secure, safe and well paid jobs. Email: [email protected] Election priorities page 16 Web: www.munz.org.nz So do all workers. But so many no longer even enjoy these basic necessities Editor: New Zealand in 2011 is a strange and somewhat corny place. Our Victor Billot priorities are back to front and our communities under siege from Mobile: 021 482219 a pernicious culture of greed and individualism. Fax: 09 9251125 Contact the There is something rotten when the Prime Minister can jet back Email: [email protected] Mail: PO Box 339, Dunedin Maritime Union into the country and blandly announce that the inferior New New Zealand Zealand safety regulations that failed to protect the Pike River National Office miners are a generation behind standards in the Australian Editorial Board: Telephone: 04 3850 792 mining industry. Joe Fleetwood, Garry Parsloe and Ray Fife Fax: 04 3848 766 There is something rotten when tens of thousands of people are Address: PO Box 27004, Wellington thrown into unemployment, and a Government of millionaires Office administrator: Ramesh Pathmanathan Deadline for all Port reports, submissions, tries to portray the jobless as workshy and irresponsible. photos and letters: Email: [email protected] There is something rotten, and simply wrong, when a wealthy 1 September 2011 for next edition General Secretary: Joe Fleetwood elite can award themselves tax cuts while young families Cover photo: Direct dial: 04 8017614 are saddled with unaffordable housing, student debt, and Photo by MUNZ member Mike Will. Mobile: 021 364649 skyrocketing food prices including hikes in GST. The MV Aquila Explorer is a old supply Email: [email protected] These are industrial issues, political issues, social issues and at the vessel converted to a seismic survey ship end analysis, personal issues, because they affect us all sooner or National President: Garry Parsloe in 2007, recently carrying out surveys off later. Direct dial: 09 3034652 the east coast of the South Island and The Maritime Union must continue to advocate for workers in an Taranaki. Mobile: 021 326261 Email: [email protected] uncompromising and direct manner. For more on-line photos, see With our unity comes strength – the power of the Union. www.flickr.com/maritimeunion Assistant General Secretary: Ray Fife Direct dial: 03 2128189 In this editon of the Maritimes magazine Thanks to all our photographers including Mobile: 0274 475317 Enclosed with this magazine are two inserts. Mike Will, Alf Boyle, Peter Torrance, Luke Email: [email protected] Appleby, and others. One is a leaflet explaining the advantages of the MMP voting ITF Inspector: Grahame MacLaren system. The General Election this November will feature a Authorized by Joe Fleetwood, 220 Willis Direct dial: 04 8017613 referendum on whether to keep MMP as our voting system. Street, Wellington Mobile: 021 2921782 The Maritime Union and the CTU support MMP. Email: [email protected] Read this leaflet for some of the reasons. We also enclose a postcard to send freepost to Prime Minister Communications Officer: Victor Billot Mobile: 021 482219 John Key asking him to stop free trade deals like the TPPA (Trans Fax: 09 9251125 Pacific Partnership Agreement) which threaten New Zealand’s Address: PO Box 339, Dunedin independence and workers rights. Email: [email protected] For more information, see www.nznotforsale.org

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 3 GENERAL SECRETARY’S REPORT Hard issues facing workers in 2011

1951 Offshore industry As part of our commemorations of the As the offshore industry continues to 1951 waterfront lockout, the Maritime grow, the Maritime Union is pushing for Union held a special function during the more inspectors and keeping an eye on May national executive meeting. conditions and standards in this industry. On the evening of Wednesday 18 May, There is great potential for New Zealand union representatives plus some special here, but only if the industry is run to the guests gathered at the Wellington Museum highest standards and the returns come of City and Sea. to all New Zealand workers rather than Special presentations were made to unions given away by a few multinationals. that had assisted maritime workers in 1951, including two international guests, Tauranga Ian Bray of the MUA and Ian Murray of We note the election of a new secretary the CFMEU Mining and Energy Division. at Tauranga Mount Maunganui branch. We were also very lucky to have two 51’ We look forward to working with Selwyn veterans, Russell French and Charles Russell in this important port and branch. Finall, in attendance with their wives. A full report and photos are later in this National and international unity edition of the Maritimes. The Maritime Union continues to play its Budget part in the wider union movement. We regularly attend meetings of the The budget was announced while our Council of Trade Unions in Wellington. By Joe Fleetwood National Executive was meeting in General Secretary As part of the ITF (International Transport Wellington in May. Workers Federation) we have taken part We adjourned our national meeting to in a national week of action on flag of National Executive attend a lunchtime rally at Parliament convenience shipping, supported New Grounds along with many other workers The national executive of the Maritime Zealand rail manufacturing and defended and unions. Union met at Waterside House, Wellington the rights of overseas fishing crews, as Opposition politicians, union leaders and on 18–19 May 2011. well as demanding jobs for New Zealand workers all spoke. The theme was how the It was a busy two days, as we had two workers in all industries. National Government is attacking workers union events on as well. More on these Officials will attend meetings of the and public services. below. RMT (UK) union, Zenkowan (Japan We have to fight back against this As well as the two day national executive, dockworkers), ITF, and Mining and Government’s anti-worker policies. relevant officials attended finance Maritime committee thru the year. In It was a positive rally and the solid committee and superannuation meetings addition we have been invited to speak presence of the Maritime Union was noted. at this time. at the Port executive national forum to One topic we discussed was the ongoing be held in Bluff in June where Assistant Election year review of our Union structure and the way General Secretary Ray Fife will speak and we do things. 2011 is election year. We need to make give the workers’ perspective, which is a This included a new method of sector sure we all enrol and vote for pro-worker first. reports looking at the four key sectors in policies that benefit the majority not the our industry – container terminals, bulk minority. Christchurch and Lyttelton Earthquake stevedoring, offshore oil and gas, and The Maritime Union is affiliated to the Canterbury has suffered ongoing coastal shipping and ferries. Labour Party and we are advancing our earthquakes and related problems. As part of this process we are doing a goals through active involvement. In However a great response to our Maritime thorough review of the Union rules to addition we are also supporting other left relief fund for MUNZ members has seen ensure they are up to date and effective. parties that can assist in the formation of a substantial donations flow in. All branch delegates attending will be able pro-worker Government. Thank you to all contributors with a to report back to their branch executive The other important issue in this election special mention to the generous support and stop work meetings on all discussed. is the referendum on MMP. of our international affiliates and friends No hurried decisions are being made as MMP is supported by unions as a fairer including the Maritime Union of Australia, we need to get this right first time, but and more democratic voting system – we the Philippine Seafarers’ Union, Japanese we are aiming to finalize all changes in have used it since 1999. time for endorsement at the 2012 national Council of Dockworkers, United Steel triennial conference. Workers Humanitarian Fund, International Transport Workers Federation, Koun Rokyo, Lat. Tirdzn. Flotes Ju, Jurininku Sajunga, and Hong Kong Seafarers’ Coordination Committee.

4 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz NATIONAL EXECUTIVE

Maritime Union of New Zealand national executive and observers attend Budegt Day rally at Parliament Buildings, Wellington, 19 May 2011 (photo by Victor Billot)

National meeting discusses strategy, rules and election year

The national executive of the Maritime These goals included: Resolution: “The Maritime Union of New Union met in Wellington on 18 and 19 • the rationalizing of bargaining at a Zealand recognises the importance of May 2011. national level delegate training at all levels, therefore All branches were represented, with a • remaining financially sound requests all Branches to support the number of new delegates and observers • a focus on growth. Training Courses available through the welcomed to the meeting. • World class health and safety on all sites CTU.” (Moved B Connelly/I Holland, The meeting discussed Union business • building our organising and Carried) such as our strategic plan, rules review, campaigning capacity sector reports, finance and special reports, • to be internationally organized Rule Review in progress and welcomed special guests from • be politically powerful and active in our General Secretary Joe Fleetwood presented Australian unions and the NZCTU. communities the draft changes to the rules, and Branch The meeting was opened by the Chairman, To achieve these goals, a work plan was submissions, and spoke to each remit that National President Garry Parsloe. approved. was sent in by the Branches. A minutes silence was observed after the Mr Fleetwood said that all members must The National Executive generally agreed reading of obituaries, noting the passing notify Branch secretaries of any accidents to the draft changes and after a full of Tom Gregory, Alan McDonald, Joe or incidents that are then sent to National discussion on the Branch submissions Skeping, Roy Fuller, Frank Jennings, Dave Office. agreed that the General Secretary present Butler, Murdo McKenzie, Enooka Patuka, He presented a delegate profile that a copy of rules that has all changes and Alan Turkington and Bill Mckay. provided the skills and attributes we need submissions for further discussion at the to develop in our delegates. MUNZ needs November National Executive meeting. Strategic Plan approved to engage youth and women, identify Resolution: “The draft changes to the potential leaders and be politically active. General Secretary Joe Fleetwood gave MUNZ rules and Branch submissions The MUNZ strategic plan was approved. a presentation on the Maritime Union discussed at this National Executive be Moved J Fleetwood/B Connelly strategic plan, and said there was a need progressed with a further draft to be Resolution: “That the MUNZ Strategic for the Union to focus on positive goals. presented to the November National Plan presented by the General Secretary The key goals of the Union have been Executive Meeting.” (Moved L Wells/M be adopted.” (Moved J. Fleetwood/B. identified. Clark, Carried) Connelly, carried). www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 5 NATIONAL EXECUTIVE

Day Two – Thursday 19 May

MUA national official Ian Bray The Chairman Garry Parsloe welcomed National Assistant Secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia Ian Bray. Mr Bray said that it was a pleasure to be at the meeting and noted the discussions here are similar with those in Australia. He said that one of the biggest changes politically in Australia is about to happen with shipping. Cabotage will be reinstated, which is a major achievement for seafarers’ jobs. There will be a structured career path with recognised qualifications. MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin had worked hard at delivering this and it had taken a massive amount of resources. It is going through the consultative process At the Maritime Union of New Zealand May 2011 national executive meeting, from left, Wellington Seafarers’ Branch right now then out as legislation, then President Glenn Wylie, MUA Assistant National Secretary Ian Bray, Wellington Seafarers’ Branch executive member the MUA National Council will have a Jimmy King and Wellington Seafarers’ Branch Vice President Alan Windsor Seafaring Conference to accept it. Mr Bray reported that all stevedoring Australian mining union leader speaks MUNZ Election Report EBA’s have expired. The MUA have been in negotiations with The chairman Garry Parsloe introduced National Returning Officer John Whiting Patricks for the past 12 months and had a the National Vice President of the Mining reported that Garry Parsloe was the only ban on not working the 8th hour of the day. Division of the CFMEU, Ian Murray, from nomination for National President and Patricks had found a loop hole in Sydney, Australia. was duly elected. legislation in which if you do not work for Mr Murray thanked MUNZ for The position for National Vice President is a part of the day, you do not get paid for the invitation to attend the 1951 now vacant and nominations opened on the hours you have worked. commemoration and the national the 3rd May and closed on 14 June 2011. “There is still no agreement and the executive saying that we are like minded Mr Whiting said that he scrutinised the employers attempted to get the protected unions and have a long history of having Tauranga Branch over the election period action removed in court but the union got many blues together. but no election was required. it knocked back.” In recognition of the discussion, he noted Resolution: “That the National Returning Mr Bray said the resource boom was “still the CFMEU had been going through rule Officer’s report presented to the National going mad” in Australia. changes since the 1980’s and have not Executive be accepted and endorsed.” “There are 3 to 4 projects in WA that are finished yet. (Moved J. Whiting/K. Forde, Carried) about to start. Queensland in terms of Mr Murray said that the MUA and marine work is starting to boom. Dredging CFMEU operate out of the same building Finance Committee Report in Gladstone is worth $1.3 billion over a in Sydney and there was excellent Bill Connelly spoke to the Finance three year period. We have identified 160 communication between the two unions. Committee report. jobs in dredging alone, but where do these The Mining and Maritime unions led the Resolution: “The Maritime Union of New people come from?” way in the Fairness at Work campaign in Zealand National Executive endorses and Mr Bray said that growth and campaigns 2007. adopts the Finance Committee report and is a major challenge for the MUA. “If Howard had won that election it would draft set of National Office Accounts for “It is about rebuilding the capacity of the have been a mandate to finish us off . . . the the year ending 31 March 2011.” (Moved B. rank and file.” trouble with Labor is that they have been Connelly/M. Clark, Carried) The Chairman and General Secretary on a path of self destruction since they thanked Mr Bray for his contribution. won in 2007. They are still pandering to the Sector Reports employers.” Superannuation The Australian mining industry is going General Secretary Joe Fleetwood gave a full steam ahead. Global giants are paying presentation on sector reports, which are a General Secretary Joe Fleetwood reported $7.6 billion in GST but are getting credits of new way of looking at what is happening on the decision by the trustees to out- $4 billion. For instance BHP is making $54 in the different sectors of our industry. source the administration and secretarial million profit every day, he says. National Officials will oversee a sector services of the WISF to Aon. MUNZ General Secretary Joe Fleetwood each and report back information to the Resolution: “That after receiving a full spoke in reply and said that Miners and National Executive. The MUA operate report from the WISF Trustees this Maritime workers have a close relationship. under a similar structure. National Executive endorses the Trustees’ Miners stood staunch through the 1951 The four sectors will initially be Coastal decision to transfer the administration and lockout and were solid supporters in the Shipping, Offshore, Terminals, Bulk & secretarial services to Aon. Patricks dispute in Australia. General. This notes that it is with sadness that Joe Fleetwood and the Chair Garry Parsloe Each sector will cover areas such as this measure had to be taken but given thanked Ian Murray for his attendance and employers, permanent/casual workforce, the governance issues the fund was contribution. agreements, manning levels, health and experiencing there was no alternative safety, employment work duties, current option.” (Moved J. Whiting/M. Clark, issues and other outstanding issues. Carried)

6 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz NATIONAL EXECUTIVE

Union leader Helen Kelly Seafarers’ Retirement Fund The Chairman Garry Parsloe welcomed David Scott said that the fund has CTU National President Helen Kelly. achieved a net 5.4% growth. National Ms Kelly spoke on the budget day rally A review of the investment strategy was that was happening later that day at underway that will see why the fund has executive Parliament. She said the budget will have done well in some areas and badly in a huge impact at what happens in the next others. meeting election. There will be a new strategy in place by This government has cut taxes so that the second half of next year. 80% of the tax cuts went to the top 40% The returns for this year will be rather May 2011 income earners. This had done nothing to subdued. stimulate the economy as the Government was borrowing to fund the tax cuts. Veterans 27% of our young people under the age of Veterans’ delegate Terry Ryan reported 23 were unemployed. that there are now 390 members. He said Ms Kelly also spoke on the “Together” that the RMTU are forming a veterans initiative to reach unorganized workers. section as well. Together is a new organisation established He spoke on how they are endeavouring and run by the unions affiliated to the to get Branches set up and hopefully CTU, and aims to connect workers in by the next meeting can say that more un-unionised work places with the union ITF Report Branches have been established. movement and the union experience. ITF inspector Grahame McLaren spoke Together is not about accepting Communications and election statement on his written report and the upcoming membership if a worker is on a ship or the ITF national week of action on flag of wharf as no worker will be allowed to join Communications Officer Victor Billot convenience shipping. Together if a proper union covers that area. presented a written report. The chairman Garry Parsloe and General General Secretary Joe Fleetwood said Pike River Miners Fund Secretary Joe Fleetwood thanked Helen MUNZ is committed to the election of a General Secretary Joe Fleetwood presented Kelly for taking the time to address this Government in 2011 that will deliver a a breakdown of the Branches who made meeting. better quality of life for the working class donations to the Pike River Miners Fund. There was extensive discussion amongst of New Zealand. delegates about the “Together” plan. Our election statement outlines our goals Maritime Workers Relief Fund Resolution: “The Maritime Union of New in areas such as wages and conditions, Zealand National Executive after listening casualisation, taxation, sovereignty and General Secretary Joe Fleetwood noted to the report of ‘Together’ by Helen Kelly democracy, economic development the generous response, especially supports in principal the concept but have and trade, transport industry, coastal from international unions. However reservations and will monitor the progress shipping, ports, offshore oil and gas, some branches had not yet made their of ‘Together’ through the CTU National fishing industry, environment, health and contribution and would be followed up. Affiliates Council.” (Moved G. Parsloe/J. education. Fleetwood, Carried.) Resolution: “The Maritime Union of Youth and Women’s Conference The meeting adjourned at 11.40 am to New Zealand adopts the MUNZ election General Secretary Joe Fleetwood noted attend a rally at parliament and resumed statement 2011.” (Moved J. Fleetwood/J. upcoming CTU Conferences for youth and again at 1.45pm. Whiting. Carried) women. They were about organising and empowering young workers and women. Branch Reports Drug and alcohol policy MUNZ had members attending both. All Branches spoke to their written reports General Secretary Joe Fleetwood spoke enclosed in their folders. about the proposed policy that is being International Travel Resolution: “The Branch reports are negotiated between our union and Centre General Secretary Joe Fleetwood reported accepted” (Moved D. Ferris/K. Forde. Port Wellington. on invitations to international conferences. Carried.) There are many questions to be answered He said it is vital to keep up international General Secretary Joe Fleetwood asked yet on the policy presented to this meeting connections in line with the National that all Branches notify National Office as but as a union we must be proactive and Executive’s directive November 2010 and to when Branch Elections are to be held. say no to drugs and alcohol on the job. for the Committee of Management to National President Garry Parsloe said it address international travel and keep costs Waterfront Industry Superannuation Fund is important to be proactive with such down. policies as we do not want them imposed WISF manager Paul Martin spoke on how on us. The Union wanted a safe workplace the fund is to outsource the administration In closing, Mr Fleetwood said the focus for all members. of the fund. Members should see no of the November 2011 national executive Resolution: “The MUNZ National difference with Aon taking over. meeting would be on internal union Executive endorses that the Committee He said that there will be reasonable matters. of Management in consultation with returns for year ending March 2011. The He thanked everyone for attending the Branches move forward and vigorously conservative fund will return 8.5% while previous night’s function to commemorate investigate and implement as policy saliva the balanced fund will return 7.4% gross. the 60th anniversary of the 1951 lockout. testing on the day as the core procedure Russell Mayn, on behalf of the trustees It is a part of our history that we need to for Drug & Alcohol testing on work sites.” thanked Paul Martin, for the work he done recognise. (Moved J. Whiting/D. Ferris. Carried) while WISF fund director. The Chairman National President Garry Parsloe thanked everyone for attending, and closed the meeting at 4.55pm. www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 7 NEWS

Pacific Worker (photo by Alf Boyle)

Offshore exploration safety regulations must be improved

Unions representing offshore oil and gas “New Zealand deserves the strictest “The government simply must increase workers say the National government levels of safety, accident prevention and the level of health and safety staffing and must apply lessons from it and the Pike response, and a comprehensive environ- monitoring in the most hazardous sectors River tragedy and act without delay to mental safeguards regime in its Exclusive such as oil, gas and mining.” ensure workers have a stronger voice in Economic Zone (EEZ), and a dedicated “A single Department of Labour oil well offshore oil exploration safety, including rescue vessel, without compromise or inspector monitors health and safety at comprehensive “safety case” and legal inconsistency.” seven New Zealand installations and is liability provisions. “Too often the free market culture says ‘in- supposed to be guarding against disasters The Government also needs to legislate crease productivity and make more profit’ such as the rig explosion that killed 11 for best international regulatory standards but this devalues the workers’ voice on workers on the Deepwater Horizon in the and practices, enforce them effectively by health and safety issues which isn’t good Gulf of Mexico last year.” increasing the number of inspectors and enough.” “Australia has one inspector for every remove legal uncertainties about compa- “It’s also about a sensible recognition that three installations, Britain has one for nies’ insurance liability obligations. some industries are inherently dangerous, every two and Norway has one per instal- “The Pike River and Deepwater Horizon such as oil, gas and mining, and people lation. Yet the sole New Zealand inspector tragedies were reminders that workplace working in them are entitled to the best is responsible for seven installations as safety is not negotiable,” says Andrew possible protections going.” well as all onshore petroleum and geother- Little, joint spokesman for the NZ section “New Zealand has only one inspector mal activities, which beggars belief.” of the Trans Tasman Oil & Gas Alliance overseeing safety in offshore oil explo- “The Department of Labour inspectorate (TTOGA) of trade unions. ration, which is a grave concern after needs more inspectors and support staff to New Zealand affiliates of the TTOGA in- the Pike River and Deepwater Horizon bring the level here in line with Norway clude the Maritime Union and the EPMU. tragedies.” where they have one for each installation.”

8 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz NEWS Spotlight goes on abuse of overseas crews

An investigation on the exploitation of overseas fishing crews in New Zealand waters by the Sunday Star Times published in April 2011 has lifted the lid on what is going on in the industry. Maritime Union General Secretary Joe Fleetwood says the union has been ad- vocating for a complete clean up of the joint venture fishing industry for years to protect workers. “It is good to see the New Zealand media finally shining the spotlight into some dark places.” In recent years the joint venture fishing industry had seen a string of sinkings, drownings, industrial accidents, reports of violence and abuse, health and safety violations, ship jumpings, appalling work conditions and failures to honour employ- ment and wage agreements. Mr Fleetwood says the Maritime Union wants a full audit of the industry, includ- ing the standard of vessels and opening the wages books. The use of employment agents in the countries of origin for foreign crews meant the worst practices of Third World econo- mies had become established in the New Maritime Union of New Zealand General Secretary Joe Fleetwood speaking at the February 2011 national conference Zealand economy. of the Australian Workers Union on the Gold Coast, Queensland “This situation is what is known overseas as social dumping, or the exploitation of cross-border labour in a globalized economy.” Mr Fleetwood says just because fish- No GST on food petition ing vessels were operating off the New Zealand coast, that did not give operators a right to ignore New Zealand standards of heads to Parliament employment. “The New Zealand Government has taken Su’a William Sio, the Labour MP for “Removing GST from food is an an ineffective approach, simply because Mangere, will receive the Tax Justice immediate action which would address there are big profits in it for the compa- petition in front of Parliament Buildings rising food prices that are hurting low and nies.” on Tuesday 16 August. middle income earners.” The Tax Justice petition requests “And we want a debate in this country parliament to: 1. Remove GST from food; about why financial speculators are and 2. Tax financial speculation. allowed to profit in New Zealand markets The Maritime Union was the first union to and pay no tax,” says Mr Gunson. “We come up in public support of the petition. pay tax on our food, while mega-wealthy “We’re very pleased to have Su’a William speculators pay zero tax – it’s obscene and Sio receiving the petition, because must be reversed.” we’ve had good support in his Mangere The Tax Justice campaign is a joint electorate for the campaign,” says initiative of Socialist Worker and the Vaughan Gunson, Tax Justice campaign Alliance Party. coordinator. New Zealanders can sign an online version Mr Gunson says the Tax Justice campaign of the Tax Justice petition at http://www. is on target to present 50,000 signatures to ipetitions.com/petition/taxjustice/ Mr Sio.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 9 ITF

On the afternoon of day one we discussed ITF Asia–Pacific Seafarers agenda item 6 Criminalisation. This is all about the human rights of Seafarers. The IMO and ILO have adopted guidelines Regional Meeting and a joint working group will meet this year to discuss how the guidelines can be put in place. In addition, the code of the International Standards and recommended practices for a safety investigation into a maritime casualty or marine Incident has mandatory provisions that must be recognised and adhered to. Just before closing on Day One the forum carried the following resolution: The members of the Asia/ Pacific Seafarers’ Regional Committee: are AWARE that the piracy attacks in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and other surrounding and adjacent sea lanes, known as danger areas, have escalated and worsened in the recent months – 29 attacks in January 2011 alone, with 693 seafarers taken hostage; are CONCERNED that pirate actions are now characterized by increased brutality, torture, longer captivity period of seafarers, more sophisticated operations and sustained attacks, and have actually led to the cold blooded At the ITF Asia/Pacific meeting, March 2011, from left, ILWU International Secretary Willie Adams, Maritime Union murder of a number of seafarers; of New Zealand National President Garry Parsloe and RMT (UK) Seafarers’ Secretary Steve Todd CONDEMNS in the strongest terms possible such atrocious attacks and merciless killing of by Garry Parsloe There were 25 vessels and 601 hostages seafarers; National President being held by pirates off the coast of NOTES that the cost of the piracy actions to the whole maritime industry is estimated to be In the first week of March 2011 I attended Somalia when the MV Thor Nexus was 12 billion U.S. Dollars annually; the ITF Asia/Pacific Seafarers’ Regional pirated on 25 December 2010, 450 nautical RECOGNIZES that if the problem further meeting in Manila, the Philippines. miles North East of the Island of Socotra in worsens, there is a strong possibility that After registration we had the entrance the Indian Ocean. seafarers, either their individual choice, by of colours then the Philippine national The Thai flagged and owned vessel had a recommendation of the ITF or by decree of anthem. crew of 27, all from Thailand. individual governments, will refuse to enter The first item raised was piracy and armed An accounting report suggested that the the danger areas; robbery and what had changed in this area average cost of a successful piracy attack is BELIEVES that the time is ripe for the whole since the Mexico Congress. about $9 million. global maritime industry to take bolder, more It is reported that up to 55% of vessels This is based on the estimated average concerted, decisive countermeasures to combat are not fully implementing the best ransom being $6-$8 million and an the piracy menace; management practice (BMP). estimated hijack success rate of 28% Therefore: Although the naval presence is lowering (however the figure for the Samho Dream ADVISES seafarers and their organisations the success rate of pirates, ships are still was US$9.5 million.) to begin to prepare considering options in the being taken, and naval forces do not This gave rise to a calculated kidnap near future, including declining employment have the capacity to extend their area of and ransom rate of $57,000 per vessel when ships they will embark on pass through operations. traversing the Suez Canal. the known danger areas; Ships come under fire from both guns and The success of the “End of Piracy Now” RECOMMENDS to all shipowners’ groups RPG’s however little is reported on the campaign has not only been felt within the to seriously consider other viable and safer damage that the vessels sustain and the ITF family, but has been echoed across the routes in transporting goods and services, impact on the crews. maritime industry as a whole. commit to take all necessary measurers towards There are reports the Philippines is to The global response has been protecting seafarers and their families in case blacklist ships and companies that do not overwhelming with a particular note of seafarers are held as captives as a consequence implement best management practices. appreciation for the efforts of the Unions of a piracy act, continue to cooperate fully Whilst there has been a reduction in the in the Philippines, Japan and India. with naval forces and strictly implement number of attacks, the percentage of those This combined with the backing of an internationally agreed Best Management which are pirated has increased. unprecedented coalition of industry Practices, and provide available resources There has also been an increase in the leaders has meant that the “End Piracy and assistance to law enforcement officials length of time that crews are being held. Now” campaign gathered wide press / agencies to prosecute and bring pirates to Reports suggest that the cost of hiring coverage and global recognition and as justice; a team of private security guards is a result we are hopeful that we will see EXHORTS governments, preferably estimated to be between $25,000 to changes going forward. collectively with international organizations $100,000 and that a growing number of Later in the morning on Day One we had involved with the anti piracy cause, to exert ships are carrying them. a long discussion on the need for training all efforts to secure the immediate rescue and There is also a growth in the provision then another long debate on Piracy and release of the more than 800 seafarers presently of pirate ships providing armed escort Armed Robbery. held captive by Somali pirates; services.

10 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz ITF

CALLS on and URGES all international naval and other armed forces to help neutralize the threat caused by the use of pirate mother ships and to take all possible necessary measures to restore the freedom of navigation in the crucial trade routes and eliminate the threat of piracy attacks; Done in Manila, Philippines on 1 March 2011.

ITF Maritime Forum On Day Two, Wednesday 2 March, welcome remarks for the ITF Maritime Forum were delivered by the chairperson Dr Conrado F Orca, President of Amosup. The first speaker was Hon Stella Z Banawis, Deputy Administrator, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration. Stella spoke on employment and standard employment contract issues. After morning smoko we had a presentation from John Bainbridge on revised IMO STCW convention amendments. John spoke on minimum requirements for fatigue, hours of work, medical Maritime Union of New Zealand Mount Maunganui Tauranga branch members accompanied by National President Garry examinations and other issues under Parsloe and Local 13 Secretary Russell Mayn picket the port to demand dockers’ work be carried out by ITF affiliated discussions around the STCW 2010 dockers, during the May 2011 ITF National Week of Action amendments. After lunch there was a long session on Piracy and the Experience and Initiatives of Social Partners. There was a long list of speakers who all spoke on the need to protect Seafarers and not allow them to be placed in any dangerous situations. The final session of Day Two was headed Fair Treatment of Seafarers (Including ILO Convention 185). This session was presented by Chairperson of the ITF Maritime Safety Committee Mike Murphy. Mike stated that if Seafarers are charged with criminal offences they must be allowed access to legal advice and must have prompt access to the courts. The last speaker was the Under Secretary of the Department of Labour and Employment Hon. Hans Leo J Cacdac. Hans spoke on freedom of movement for Seafarers, ratification of Seafarers’ Rights, the consultation process and the ratification of the ILO convention 185 document.

ITF Maritime Safety Committee Meeting Maritime Union of New Zealand National President Garry Parsloe with the Labour Party campaign to stop asset sales in Auckland On the Thursday 3 March I attended the ITF Maritime Safety Committee Meeting. In this session we addressed the training of Seafarers, blacklisting, lifeboat safety, asbestos and ETF/EU coordination. Through the afternoon we discussed Maritime Safety around accidents involving lifeboats, environmental protection, flag state implementation, training, occupational Health and Safety and Maritime Security. As you can see this was a full on forum.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 11 ITF ITF Offshore Task Force Group Meeting Split, Croatia 24 and 26 May 2011 by Mike Clark Day One was the traditional opening A similar situation is happening in Wellington Secretary ceremony hosted by Chairman of SPH Norway. Branko Berlan. The chart below shows the activity that Day One Croatian members of Brodospas followed. is or will be happening in Australia and I attended the ITF Offshore Task Force Brodospas is the Croatian national oil and Papua New Guinea. Group meeting on behalf of our Union in gas operator. This company was formed Enrique Lozano of Mexico followed with Split, Croatia. Split is Croatia’s second some 65 years ago as Croatia Shipping. a report on labour exploitation in Mexico’s largest city with one of the Adriatic’s most Broadospas was set up after the Second Oil and Gas Offshore. fascinating ports. World War to clear Croatian ports of the Many people and affiliated ITF Unions The city emerged from a palace built by debris left from the conflict. and other Mexican Unions participated in the Roman Emperor Diocletian more than It became a tug and salvage company a large demonstration on 19 February 2011 a thousand years ago. and as the offshore oil industry started but this was unfortunately blocked from Croatia is a Central European and they began to support that activity in the media coverage by the Government. Mediterranean country, bordering Slovenia Mediterranean, the North Sea, Middle A representative of Croatian Seafarers’ in the west, Hungary in the north, Serbia East and West Africa with a fleet of seven Union (SPH) then gave an overview (Yugoslavia) in the east, Bosnia and A.H.T. crew boats, multipurpose tugs and of their involvement in the oil and gas Herzegovina in the south, and has a long barges, industry. maritime border with Italy in the Adriatic ITF Offshore Task Force (OTFG) Chairman Sea. Norrie McVicar gave his opening address Day Three to the group including a response to the Over 90% of the population is Croat (the The last day concentrated on the opening speakers and a presentation about majority of whom are Roman Catholics). Norwegian social dumping campaign as the general work of the OTFG and the It has an amazing 5835km of coastline, reported at the 2010 Mumbai meeting. adoption of the provisional agenda. 4057km of which belongs to islands, cliffs The negotiations between the Norwegian and reefs. Croatia has a very rich culture affiliates and the Norwegian ship-owners Day Two and history with lovely ancient buildings. have failed to find a resolution. At the meeting I was fortunate enough to There was an adoption of the report of the This has now gone on for over 14 months present a comprehensive report prepared previous OTFG Meeting (22–24 February and has not resulted in any offshore by Deputy National Secretary of the MUA 2010) in Mumbai, India with discussions agreements being signed in Norway for Mike Doleman. followed by a general report of the OTFG the same period. Some is included later in this report to activities in 2010. Age Barheim representing Industry give members an idea the scale of the I gave a report on activities in the offshore Energy (IE) spoke on Bourbon Offshore amount of offshore work to take place on in Australia and New Zealand and also on who had agreed to explore the possibilities both coasts East and West of Australia and the dangers to terms and conditions from of entering into a global fleet agreement to forecasts for New Zealand. employers using foreign nationals in the cover their substantial offshore fleet. industry. This was followed by a number of motions and discussions and the proposed campaigns to be mounted in 2011–2012, one of which was for the chair to write to Swires to try and get an agreement for three of their vessels to work in Russia. There was a tremendous amount of information to digest and a full minute documentation will be available when printed. The problems we face in New Zealand are the same issues faced worldwide on a much larger scale.

Australia and Papua New Guinea Projects

12 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz ITF The Offshore Oil Capitalism and the worker and Gas Industry by Dave Phillips The “free market” Walking Delegate, Local 13 in New Zealand The catch words for our National Party are Capitalism: an economic system in which “free market” which should concern us. Most of the production of oil and gas the means of production and distribu- The corporate gambling has started again occurs on the West Coast of the North tion are privately or corporately owned, and this won’t be of any benefit to us. Island, in the Taranaki region. and development is proportionate to the The cycle will start again and who will pay As this dries up a lot of other areas are accumulation and reinvestment of profits when it goes sour again? The workers. being explored, albeit in deeper water gained in a free market. In his state of the nation speech John Key which is causing problems with the Sounds great doesn’t it? I don’t think so. announced the partial sale of state owned protesters, namely Greenpeace, the Green Capitalism creates a society for the select assets including power companies. Party and local iwi, fearing if drilling takes few at the expense of the common people. His claim that this will allow New Zealand place then there being no guarantees of There are no lengths these predators at the Mums and Dads to buy up the shares on disasters not occurring which would be top of the food chain will go to so they can offer is a crock. catastrophic in terms of environmental increase their bottom line. He knows full well the average working damage. A capitalist is an individual with not much family can never afford what he is propos- Currently two major players are seismic thought for his fellow human being, a man ing. They just don’t have any disposable surveying in the country. for whom only one god rules: the mighty income. One is the South American operator dollar. There will be hikes in power prices on the Petrobas which has had its fair share of back of recent rises and this will spread mishaps over the years, and there is also Global recession across the board to everyday items which a Texas oil giant Anadarko which intends The years of global recession have been the will directly impact on families who are bringing a semi-sub later this year or early result of the minority’s wish to own more already struggling. next year to drill exploratory wells. and have more. The only people in the ball park financially This is a huge cost to any one in the It saw a financial fiasco unleashed begin- for snapping up the Mum and Dad shares industry given the location and isolation of ning in the US with sub-prime mortgages. on offer are his mates and financial backers. New Zealand to mobilise such a venture. They all knew the real likelihood of the They are the only ones who will make the So, of course, they are looking at joint working-class families losing everything gains and once again in the New Zealand ventures and early indications that there because of an inability to service the loans economy we will see only a few benefit at are large reserves of oil and gas in these was a reality. Did they care? No. the expense of the majority. locations in much deeper waters. The Recession took hold in 2008 after a I cannot see the logic of selling the family In the Taranaki region production wells two year roller coaster ride with a housing silver to stem overseas borrowing. operate at shallow depths of 120–130 boom that was unbelievable. The capitalist does not work hard for his metres as opposed to 2000 metres. Interest rates were at an all-time low and money. He spends his time finding ways to keep wages down and to steal a bigger cut Maritime New Zealand foreign investment was pouring in. This created a climate where lending of the profit. Maritime New Zealand is New Zealand’s institutions removed almost any criteria A recent display of capitalist power was maritime regulator and New Zealand’s for loans. the Hobbit fiasco. maritime legislation comes under the Agents were paid huge bonuses to secure Peter Jackson’s friends Warner Brothers Maritime Transport Act 1994. more buyers as the housing market went demonstrated their power by not only se- Most of the substance of these rules is through the roof. curing additional tax breaks, but they also derived from International conventions These were the years of the sub-prime managed to undermine the democratic and good practice. mortgage. sovereignty of New Zealand to demon- New rules often arise as a result of new or People were committing to second and strate the true power of a multinational. revolving International standards. third mortgages on their properties, loans John Key (and Warner Brothers) pushed Putting these rules in place involves public to the jobless and loans to bad creditors. through change under urgency in Parlia- consultation at which time interested and Lenders made it attractive because of the ment securing labour reforms that suited affected parties are invited to participate, increased value of housing for people who their employment style – fire at will with often this involves local Maori iwi. were mortgage free to re-finance. no liability. New Zealand law recognises Marspol Big overseas banking institutions and big Now that is bloody scary, because where 73/78 but more importantly there is investors saw the sub-prime market as a does it end? no international convention regulating solid investment and bought up billions of This year 2011 is the year to send a clear the environmental standards offshore dollars of Portfolios. message to the capitalists. installations but these are left to national The whole thing was driven by greed and It’s election year, make the right choice regulation. had to come to a head. It wasn’t long be- when you vote and push the struggle of fore the housing market boom took a rapid the working class and their families to the dive and there was a surplus. front. Interest rates started to climb and the risky We need government that will stop the borrowers started defaulting in their mil- exploitation created in the workplace by lions. National and ensure the wealth generated Investors sought to sell the houses to write by workers is used for the benefit of all off the debt but came up short and wrote and not the few. most of it off as a loss. Wind back the draconian laws introduced This sent banks and financial institutions by Key on behalf of big business, and give around the world into a tail spin and the the worker a voice. rest is history. www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 13 ITF

Maritime workers board Flag of Convenience ships in national week of action

ITF inspection of the Samaguita at the Port of Tauranga: from left, MUNZ Local 13 Secretary Russell Mayn, Captain of the Samaguita, MUNZ National President Garry Parsloe, and ITF New Zealand inspector Grahame MacLaren. The Samaguita was loading kiwifruit with non-union and non ITF affiliated workers. This vessel will be going to Pusan, Korea. It is the same company that ships to Japan. The statement being held by Garry Parsloe and agreed by the Captain states the cargo has to be loaded by ITF affiliated dockers as per clause 4.1 and 4.2 of the IBF agreement with the JSU and ITF. All vessels that do not use ITF affiliated dockers are in breach of their agreements and if not resolved a campaign to fix this will be put in place. The issue is easy to resolve – the contractor must employ ITF affiliated dockers. by Grahame MacLaren FOCs provide a means of avoiding labour Another vessel, the Eco Vanguard (IMO ITF inspector regulation in the country of ownership, 9253404), had been identified by the ITF New Zealand maritime workers have and become a vehicle for paying low in Australia as having an anti ITF clause been heading up the gangway to check wages and forcing long hours of work and in their articles and crew were being paid out ships flying “flags of convenience” unsafe working conditions. as little as $1 an hour for overtime. Crew and ensure that crew conditions, wages, ITF New Zealand inspector Grahame Ma- who went to the ITF with any problems and health and safety standards are up to cLaren says the week of action is intended would be responsible for any costs to the scratch. to convey a clear message to Flag of company. 16 vessels were inspected in Tauranga, and Convenience operators who trade in New However, contact had been made with the a similar number in Auckland, when the Zealand waters that they need to abide to Malaysian company by ITF reps in New International Transport Workers’ Federa- basic ITF standards. Zealand and Australia, and the company tion (ITF) held its New Zealand Flag of Flag of convenience vessels were inspected had agreed to put in ITF agreements for all Convenience Week of Action, ending along with national flagged vessels, and their four vessels. Friday 3 June 2011. also vessels with no ITF agreements for Aboard the St Peter (IMO 9437529) there Maritime Union of New Zealand General crew. were problems with working hours and Secretary Joe Fleetwood says this is part of Bulk carriers, log ships and container ships crew concerns with sailing through pirate an ongoing international campaign to im- have all been inspected. infested waters. These problems were prove standards in the shipping industry. On one vessel, a Thai national flagged resolved after discussion with the Captain He says that there has been a number ship, crew were on far less than ILO and crew, and the hours would be adjusted of serious incidents on overseas vessels, rates with an AB seamen getting paid from the current 48 hours basic to 40 as including FOC vessels, in New Zealand US$511 per month. (The ITF rate would be per the IBF agreement, and the IBF clauses ports and in and around New Zealand US$1675). regarding Warlike and High Risk Areas waters in recent years. The Sampaquita (IMO 890494) was loading would be adhered to. “We have had ongoing incidents ranging Kiwifruit for Korea is in breach of the ITF A number of other vessels were inspected from underpayment of wages, failure for Dockers clause, by using non union labour with no problems found. crews to be returned home at the end of to load cargo. The ITF is made up of 681 unions repre- their contracts, mistreatment and abuse, all A picket by the Maritime Union of NZ was senting 4,500,000 transport workers in 148 the way up to serious injuries and deaths, placed at the main gates of the Tauranga countries. It is one of several Global Union and the sinking of vessels.” docks to protest this practice, common to Federations allied with the International all vessels loading Kiwifruit at the port. Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). Flag of Convenience (FOC) vessels are http://www.itfglobal.org/flags-convenience/index.cfm registered in countries with very lax or The Captain was given a letter by ITF non-existent regulation of the maritime reps and it was explained that a campaign industry. would be started if the problem was not resolved.

14 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz REVIEWS

“Commo Bill: People’s Poet” is a “No Ordinary Deal: Unmasking the “Spirit of the Coast” by Nick Tolerton is a biography by Wellington writer and Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade hard cover, full colour history of Pacifica teacher Pauline O’Reilly Leverton about Agreement”, edited by Jane Kelsey Shipping. It’s a presentable book, rich in her father and is a special labour of love. (published by Bridget Williams Books), is colour illustrations. As with most self- It took ten years to write, and it shows. the most substantial critical account of free published company histories, it adopts The style is dense and discursive, but trade deals and New Zealand that I have a friendly tone about the people who never dull. come across. commissioned it. Bill O’Reilly (1898–1959) was a rank and Despite the massive implications of free But if you can get through the over the file working class activist and Communist. trade deals for the future direction of our top odes to Pacifica bosses like Rod Grout He was involved in the unemployed economy, society and national sovereignty, and Cliff Skeggs, and the focus on the workers’ rights movement during discussion about free trade has until now corporate side of the business, this history the Great Depression and the anti- largely been confined to the business of New Zealand’s most high profile coastal war movement, and was a locked out pages of the newspaper. shipper has plenty of interest. watersider in 1951. There is no debate, just one sided The New Zealand shipping industry has Bill O’Reilly was a keen poet and his propaganda from big business. undergone massive and largely negative topical verses were well known around Successive Governments have boosted change since Pacifica’s inception in the Wellington. up free trade as the answer to all our early and mid 1980s. The book is a massive trove of problems. This book covers areas of shipping and information, much of it first hand research, But in recent times the spotlight has come transport politics in turbulent times, and about the struggles, hard times and good onto how free trade deals could have the larger than life characters who inhabit times. The section on the Depression and substantial negative impacts on areas such the shipping industry. the unemployed movement was especially as our health system (Pharmac) and IT and Obviously the relationship between fascinating. copyright laws. Pacifica management and unions over the Even in those days, the conservative Added to this is the question of jobs, rights years has ranged from good to abysmal and bureaucratic side of the union of workers and environmental protections, and everything in between. establishment was scrapping with the and our ability or lack of ability to However anyone involved in the New militants. disentangle ourselves from the free trade Zealand maritime industry would find this Alongside the public persona of “Commo deals when we are locked in to them. a well crafted document on a major player Bill” it is obvious that Bill O’Reilly was a The book is made up of 16 contributions in the industry. popular, respected friend and family man, from a range of free trade critics. Some who maintained friendships with those of of the analysis is quite specialist – the quite different political persuasions. An effect of free trade deals upon intellectual inspiring and touching read. property or climate change legislation for Copies can be obtained from 1offpress@ example, or how free trade deals in South gmail.com America have affected indigenous peoples. Other areas that the Maritime Union has previously spoken out on are analyzed, including Government procurement and labour issues, and the first chapter by Bryan Gould on the politics of free trade deals even mentions the Maritime Union’s criticisms of free trade. One thing for certain, is that free trade is about a lot more than selling milk powder to China.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 15 ELECTION STATEMENT A New Zealand That Works Maritime Union of New Zealand Election Statement 2011

Introduction Maritime and transport policy There is an immediate need for an integrated policy and national The Maritime Union of New Zealand leadership to create an effective, efficient and environmentally friendly is committed to the election of a transport and logistics chain that remains in the control of New Government in 2011 that will deliver Zealand, rather than global or narrow private interests. a better quality of life for the working class of New Zealand. The Maritime Union represents workers in the maritime industry including the New Zealand waterfront and ports, coastal shipping and ferries, offshore oil and gas industry, and related industries. The industrial principles that motivate our Union are the principles that we support in the political arena. These principles are equality, democracy and collective solidarity. The Maritime Union has three key political goals it intends to advance in 2011:

Worker’s rights The working class is underpaid and over-worked, with high unemployment, casualization and a shrinking share of the economic pie. This must be addressed not only by economic growth, but by the redistribution of wealth back towards the producers of wealth. Sovereignty New Zealanders must have the right to make our own economic and political choices. This right is undermined by free trade agreements and asset sales that remove the ability to determine our collective future as a community and nation.

16 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz ELECTION STATEMENT

Wages and conditions Taxation Transport industry The share of wealth returned to the • Taxation is the basis of a free and equal • The Maritime Union supports the working class in New Zealand and many society that provides a high level of public development of a planned and integrated other countries has shrunk over the goods and services to its people under New Zealand transport system. last generation while corporate profits democratic oversight. Health, education, • Priority must be given to transport continue to grow. infrastructure and social welfare are key modes that are environmentally • Working people are the producers of areas where a well resourced public sector sustainable (shipping and rail). wealth, without whom there would be no funded by taxation is required. • The ability of large market players such economy. Wages must reflect the real costs • The Maritime Union advocates a as global shipping conglomerates, or major of living for all workers. progressive taxation system, reducing the New Zealand operators such as Fonterra, • Immediate rise in the minimum wage to tax burden on the working people of New to influence transport infrastructure $15 per hour and indexed to rise in cost of Zealand. decisions must be investigated and subject living. • Support for the Tax Justice Campaign, to national planning. • Union membership is the key to higher the removal of GST on food and the wages and better conditions. Repeal of introduction of taxation on financial KiwiPort any legislation that restricts the ability speculation, such as the Financial • The Maritime Union has advocated the of workers to meet with their union Transaction Tax (FTT) establishment of a KiwiPort policy. representatives. • Introduction of capital gains taxes. This would bring all ports in New Zealand • Repeal of the “90 day fire at will” Act. under joint local community ownership • The greater regulation of union Sovereignty and democracy and national public ownership, and registration to ensure “arms length” • No privatization or public private develop a national ports strategy under relationships between unions and partnerships of public assets. the guidance of national Government and employers, to prevent the independence • The return of key assets into full public the input of stakeholders. and effectiveness of unions being ownership, including ports and transport Protocols and systems to ensure ports compromised. infrastructure. work together rather than against each • The “Right to Strike.” Workers should • The rejection of any “free” trade other in destructive competition would be have the right to strike to enforce their arrangements that lock in non-democratic introduced. agreement, to oppose lay-offs, to support practices and undermine New Zealand’s other workers and for political reasons. ability to make economic and political Coastal Shipping • Introduce a legal entitlement to decisions in its own interests. minimum redundancy compensation. • The introduction of cabotage, or the first • The ownership of strategic assets is the • Provide greater protections for casual preference given to New Zealand owned right of New Zealanders to benefit from, workers, contract workers and those with and crewed vessels, to carry cargo on the and control, their own economic and thus precarious work arrangements generally. New Zealand coast. political destiny. • Legalise collective bargaining by • Amend s198 of the Maritime Transport • The Maritime Union supports the specified contractors and extend minimum Act to ensure that domestic coastal retention of the MMP electoral system as employment standards to these groups. shipping is not disadvantaged in relation the fairest and most representative system • Increase paid parental leave to 26 weeks to foreign ships. for New Zealand. and increase the payments. • The establishment of a state owned shipping line. This is intended to ensure • Lift annual leave entitlements to 5 weeks Economic development and trade to recognize the reality of the modern that New Zealand’s national interests are economy where two-income families, shift • The Maritime Union has endorsed the not undermined by dependence on global work and long and unsocial hours are the Alternative Economic Strategy of the New shipping operators. norm for many workers. Zealand Council of Trade Unions. • The training of a new generation of New • Lift the real value of benefits, and index Zealand seafarers who will be able to take Casualization them to wage movements. their place as coastal shipping and the • Develop, implement and monitor a plan offshore industry continue to expand. • Casualization is a creeping disease of to end poverty, with a particular focus on the so-called “flexible” economy. It traps the impacts of child poverty. Offshore oil and gas workers in a cycle of poverty, dependency • Inflation adjust KiwiSaver tax credits and powerlessness. It undermines family • The offshore oil and gas industry has the and phase in compulsory employer life, community wellbeing and the potential for massive economic benefit for contributions to all workers at 9% of gross opportunity for young workers to achieve New Zealand. It also presents health and wages. a stable career path in their industry of safety issues, and the environmental effect • Amend the Reserve Bank Act and choice. of drilling and climate change needs to be reword the Policy Targets Agreement • Immediate action on casualization is addressed. by making specific reference to the required, based on greater job security, • The Maritime Union advocates impact of a high exchange rate on export rights at work and minimum standards at improvements in the regulation of the performance and employment. work. industry including health and safety. The • Keeping ACC as a public agency number of inspectors needs to be increased providing the full range of accident and the provision of rapid reaction craft prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and for deployment in emergency situations compensation services. needs to be secured. • New Zealand needs to take a much greater stake in the development of its own oil and gas resources, rather than the industry being dominated by global corporates.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 17 ELECTION STATEMENT Fishing industry Environment Political Remits, 2009 • The Maritime Union is opposed to • The Maritime Union acknowledges that the use of overseas vessels in the New the carbon based economy (oil, gas and Triennial Conference Zealand fishing industry undermining coal) is responsible for climate change and New Zealanders’ rights to work in their other negative environmental effects. Remit 25 (carried) industry and led to low standards in the • We advocate the establishment of a That MUNZ continue efforts at all industry. Transition Fund where a major share of levels of the union to involve members • New Zealand workers must have the royalties and income from the offshore in union political action at community, priority to be employed in their own oil and gas will be invested to develop provincial and national levels. fisheries at reasonable rates of pay and in renewable and advanced energy MUNZ strongly encourages members to safe conditions. technology including solar, hydro, wave get involved in the union, to be educated and informed about union business and • All overseas workers employed in New and wind power, and move New Zealand supporting others in their struggles. Zealand waters must be given the full to a carbon neutral, advanced technology rights and protections of New Zealand energy economy. Remit 26 (carried) law, with much stronger regulation and • The investigation and development oversight of the industry, both for their of wave and sea-based wind power Taking into account the current political climate where a right wing National own benefit and to reduce the downward generation. Government has been elected into power spiral by using overseas labour to drive • The promotion of shipping as the most and the decision taken that MUNZ would down wages and conditions. environmentally friendly transport mode. affiliate to the New Zealand Labour Party. • Immediate investigation into the large • Immediate phase out of methyl bromide This recommends that suitable thought number of deaths and injuries of foreign and the introduction of safer alternatives. be given to the political system currently crew members, their conditions, and • The banning of trans-shipment of operating in New Zealand MMP. the involvement of labour hire agencies, harmful materials through New Zealand Clearly a suitable coalition partner or partners joint venture companies, and other ports, such as yellowcake uranium. for Labour must be established if the National Party is to be defeated in the next election. organizations in the industry. Health That MUNZ actively promotes any • The Maritime Union supports a public political party that it believes has the health system funded by and for the credentials to support the principles MUNZ benefit of the people of New Zealand. subscribes to and has the ability to become “The Maritime Education a reliable left wing coalition partner to • The Maritime Union supports a system a successful Labour Government. Union of New of free education, funded by progressive Further that the commitment to organize both at taxation. the workplace and in the political arena go hand in hand and one cannot be successful without • All New Zealanders have the right to a both of these principles as founding beliefs. Zealand has free education whether academic or trades based apprenticeship. Remit 27 (carried) a strong and • Compulsory membership of student associations. That this Triennial Council after hearing militant tradition • The promotion of training for maritime the ongoing difficulties some Locals are workers at dedicated institutions, to cater experiencing in organizing monthly stopwork meetings under the current laws and regulations. of advocating for for the projected growth in the maritime Notes the need for clear and precise industry. changes to the Employment Relations the industrial, Act to reflect the basic right of a Union to organize and meet on a regular basis where political and every member of the Union has the right to join the debate and cast their vote. Conclusion Under current legislation any total withdrawal of social rights of The Maritime Union of New Zealand has a labour whilst in contract is considered an illegal strong and militant tradition of advocating stoppage and any Union which undertakes working people” for the industrial, political and social rights such a stoppage is liable for damages. of working people. Political parties must be taken to task The union is affiliated to the Labour Party and recognize that if they require the of New Zealand, and also has strong links support of Unions and the organizational resources Unions bring to the party to other left pro-worker parties including whilst in opposition and during election Greens and Alliance. campaigns then such basic working rights In 2011 the Maritime Union will campaign cannot be denied under legislation. for the re-election of a Labour-led Further, MUNZ commits to lobby both Government supported by coalition the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions partners that share the political goals of and the New Zealand Labour Party to seek our Union. agreement that if returned to power in the The Maritime Union commits to an active next General Election the Labour Party will seek to amend current legislation relating to contribution to the election campaign at illegal strikes in order that Unions and their the branch level. members can function going into the future. The Maritime Union recognizes the This notes that if the right to withdraw importance of not relying on achieving labour existed in an unfettered manner its goals simply through parliamentary many of the current anti worker attacks methods, and will continue to use and shameful employment behaviour by industrial tactics and community Companies would be a thing of the past. campaigns to further the interests of the majority, the working class.

18 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz BRANCH REPORTS

New Tauranga Mount Maunganui secretary Selwyn Russell New Branch secretary Selwyn Russell says he has had a good busy introduction to the branch in all its diverse situations in the past few weeks. “I attended the national executive meeting in Wellington in May. This included an inspirational 60th anniversary of the 1951 lockout which was forced upon our past members. We listened and pondered what it must have been like to just refuse overtime, then have no income after the lockout, plus all help that was received was deemed illegal (just being given a loaf of bread was an offence). Their struggles were immense, their resolve was steadfast, but the children needed to eat and with declining support after 151 days the battle was over. It took many years for some to get their jobs back, and some never did. The biggest impression I got out of this event is that we must never forget the struggles that At the May 2011 national executive meeting, from left, new Tauranga Mount Maunganui secretary Selwyn Russell, Auckland Local 13 observer Tamati Davie and Port Chalmers Dunedin Local 10 observer Steven Smith (aka Diesel). others took for the security of all in our membership. Perhaps also recognizing that the current We have also initiated bargaining for our situation demands our constant vigilance, Tauranga Mount members in Balance AgriNutrients who strength, unity and growth. continue to fight to improve their wage While we were there it was pleasing to be Maunganui rates and hours of work among other welcomed to the national executive table things. by the National Secretary Joe Fleetwood by Peter Harvey and Selwyn Russell These members along with our other and the National President Garry Parsloe. Their practical support was offered, and The Branch continues to strengthen and members work in a very physical environment and we acknowledge the accepted, to help out in any way with our unify as members fight to retain and branch. improve their working conditions in the need to steadily improve their work conditions. There were many subjects tabled over the face of the National government changes two day period from everywhere, ports, to the Employment Relations Act. We have had no offer of a pay increase for our members at Comvita which is typical land and sea. It is now more than ever that the quality Starting on 29 May, we had a New Zealand of our collective agreements and the unity but will continue to fight for an increase to try and help offset the big cost of living week of action with the International of our members protects us. Transport Workers Federation (ITF). We have been in negotiations with increases we all face. These are universally eroding workers ITF inspector Grahame Mclaren was in the C3 Tauranga since April of 2010 and port all week carrying out the inspection at a very late stage of the bargaining, base salaries and our ability to support our families. of 16 ships. management decided to make a pay offer I found it a great learning experience, with to all our members but excluding 6 of our We will meet with Wilson Parking to hopefully finalise their collective the realisation that some ships with no IBF permanent members. or ITF contract are flouting the rules with This was a defining moment for these agreement for our toll officers who are a very tight group of workers and have the conditions they are allowing some of members and the branch in repelling this their crew to sail under. attack and sending a clear message back reaped the benefits of that unity with good pay increases in recent years. We are still waiting for C3 to forward the to C3 management (with interest) that the hard copy for ratification.” offer was repugnant to the principles of We have also nearly completed our negotiations for the NZL collective organised labour. The offer was firmly rejected by all the agreement with an increased term members showing principle and sacrifice of another year and coverage of any stevedoring work they may commence at in foregoing a pay increase for the time being. the Sulphur Point terminal. We are now back in bargaining for This is a very important document. everybody and close to a settlement. We have also rationalised in the work But importantly have also set the done by the drivers in the container repair stage for future bargaining rounds in a yard into the relevant collective agreement much stronger position. Thanks to Joe which I believe can only strengthen them. Fleetwood, Garry Parsloe and Russell Overall it’s been a busy period and as we Mayn for coming to Tauranga to assist us look forward we must gear up for a big in what was becoming a dispute. election campaign to support a Labour led coalition and the retention of MMP.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 19 BRANCH REPORTS

Workers rights under threat applies here and the time has come for this Auckland Local 13 Attacks on workers and unions will to be reinforced. happen at the same time. If you don’t belong to the bowls club you by Russell Mayn The Prime Minister has clearly signalled don’t get to have a Roll Up, you can look that if re-elected industrial law changes over the fence and watch the members Free trade will follow. play but that is where it ends. The same rules apply to the Union. Currently the Government is in If we allow this to happen then future Employers don’t want the unorganised to negotiations for the Trans Pacific generations of workers will pay for it. be organised, so they offer incentives to Partnership Agreement (TPPA). There is a price to pay for Free Trade deals those watching. This is just another Free Trade deal and all the other so-called reforms that The only trouble with this approach for where none of the public knows the real have taken place since the Employment those watching is that once the numbers content or has any idea of the long term Contracts Act. watching outnumber the numbers playing, ramifications for New Zealand. This is what John Key is talking about to they receive a letter that says that in order It is interesting that today on Radio when he speaks of further changes to the to continue to watch you receive less New Zealand they reported on the current Employment Relations Act. money, and if you change your mind and announcement that China has increased If he was straight up, he would announce want to play, you won’t be watching or its tariffs on New Zealand dairy products the changes the Nats intend to make playing. entering China. before the General Election. But if you are really keen on playing there It seems that there are clauses in the Free We must make sure that we are at the polls may be a club that you can join but you Trade deal between New Zealand and in strength and make our vote counts. cannot wear Whites, you have to wear China that make provision for this. We have to make sure family and friends Yellows and there are no rules. China has rightly said that this had been are enrolled and vote for what we as Kiwis There are only Policies and you don’t get done to protect their dairy industry. have always believed in, a fair and caring to be involved in the Policy process, this is I understand this logic but struggle to Government, not tax cuts for the rich and the realm for those dressed in Blue. understand how China has this protection the chopping block for the rest. under the agreement yet by the sounds of Pike River it New Zealand does not. Collective agreements This leads to a point that is worthwhile In Auckland we have a number of In the maritime industry we know the making: “Where is the protection for the Collective Agreements up for re- damage that deregulation has done. Kiwirail workshops in Dunedin?” negotiation and a couple of new ones to But it may be time to spare a thought Surely by accepting the logic that Free initiate. This is a result of the campaign for the mining industry and the families Trade deals need to incorporate some that is currently underway to organize affected by the Pike River disaster. protection for the signatories, we accept within the maritime sector. It is disturbing to hear reports from that there should be protections for New These agreements range from Sanford’s Australia that a mine construction of this Zealand industries. Limited to Golden Bay Cement, so type would not have been allowed under The pending redundancies that have been you can see there is plenty of variety. Australian regulations. announced in the Kiwirail workshops This week we will kick of the Ballance Have no doubt the Australian regulations (Hillside and Woburn) could easily be Fertiliser and Fullers Ferry negotiations, were not just dreamt up, but were the avoided by applying the due care that and in September our largest stevedoring result of hard lessons learnt in Australian China has shown towards its dairy Collective Agreement (Ports of Auckland) mines. industry. expires. The cost of deregulation in the New The rolling stock could have been The Ports of Auckland Collective Zealand mining sector has impacted on manufactured at these workshops and a Agreement covers everyone from the families and relatives of those killed in suitable tariff would have made what is Engineering through to Crane Drivers and the disaster. already a compelling argument stronger. will soak up a large amount of resources. The calls to reintroduce independent mine The National Government’s position on We are well prepared for these talks and inspectors and the findings of the Royal this is disgraceful. the remit process will open in the near Commission come too late for the families Behind their rhetoric lies the reality they future. or the community affected by the disaster. are not willing to go into bat for the The link between all our negotiations and A new approach is needed with fair average worker in New Zealand. the success of talks still depends on the and enforceable legislation that protects Their loyalties lie elsewhere. strength and unity of the membership. workers in New Zealand, not further The National Government is conspiring Currently this could not be better, and privatization and deregulation. to carve up the “Goose” and serve the during the year our membership has led Unions have an important role to play in large portions to overseas interests. The from the front and supported the officials designing, implementing and monitoring asset sales are underway and if the Nats in the various issues that have arisen in the this legislation and we can learn some are returned to power in the upcoming port. valuable lessons on how this has been election, the floodgates will open. The Pass on Clause will come under the achieved in the Australian mining sector. Already we see the legislation that spotlight again. This also applies to many other industries protected Telecom being undermined. To put it simply, we are sick of the terms in New Zealand, especially the maritime, and conditions gained by fee paying construction and transport sectors. members being automatically passed onto The standards today are deficient in non-union. certain areas and require immediate The old saying that if you want to “Ride attention, and we may have to look back to the Tram you have to Clip the Ticket” go forward. “An Injury to One is an Injury to All”

20 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz BRANCH REPORTS

At Auckland May Day 2011, from left Local 13 Vice President Carl Findlay, executive member Ronnie Bell, National President Garry Parsloe, and Local 13 members Peter Barker, Byron Cummings and Tommy Bentley, with the May Day banner

by Garry Parsloe, National President At the Club we celebrated Workers’ and Chairman May Day Committee International Day with speeches, drinks Auckland The May Day Committee and CTU and food. Unions Auckland both agreed to celebrate The food was excellent, both the BBQ and May Day on Saturday 30 April 2011. We the trays of Peking duck and chilli seafood. May Day assembled at the Britomart at 2pm and The mixing and mingling went well into marched up to the Maritime Club in Anzac the night, so May Day was once again Ave. celebrated in true fashion in Auckland for 2011 2011.

Labour MP Carol Beaumont with Maritime Union National Australian crew aboard the fishery research vessel Southern Surveyor gave a donation to the MUNZ Christchurch President Garry Parsloe at the 2011 Auckland May Day Earthquake appeal when they called into Ports of Auckland function

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 21 BRANCH REPORTS

Port of Napier Napier The Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Nelson now owns 100% of the shares in the by Bill Lewis Port of Napier having purchased the by Bill Connelly small percentage formerly owned by Drugs and alcohol the Manawatu and Wanganui District Branch Election for Officers and Executive Councils. This was discussed at our stopwork Management Committee: meeting and it was agreed that the saliva I am pleased to report that the following C3: Formerly Toll Logistics New Zealand test would be accepted for impairment on the day. Officers have been elected to the following We are currently in negotiations for a new positions, in effect from 1 April 2011. Collective Agreement as the previous one Stopwork meetings expired on the 31 December 2010. President: Bruce Alan Winkley A good attendance is being achieved with Vice-President: Gregory Mark Keen Hawke’s Bay Stevedoring Services Ltd the numbers reaching up to the early thirties. Executive Management Committee Our members employed by this company have been in continual employment on a Political C3 limited regular basis and their idle time content Barry Crawford: Permanent Employee. is minimal. Their current Collective We revisited Labour MP Maryan Street to Maurie Hampton: Permanent Employee. Agreement has been rolled over for six get a reply in writing to our questions on Frank Guerin: Permanent Employee. months, until the end of July 2011. cabotage. Robbie Williams: Employed on a casual A commitment was made by Phil Goff at basis. Kelcold Limited the last national executive meeting to put it into their policy. Also we are waiting for Proxy Member: Any member who is Their agreement expired on 1 December a reply on the ILO convention on mining employed on a casual basis. 2010. I am happy to report that we now safety and health, as New Zealand is not have five members, who have initiated a signatory. This was related to the Pike Hawke’s Bay Stevedoring Services Ltd bargaining through the Union for a new River mine disaster. Garry Richards: Permanent Employee. Collective Agreement. Nathan Owen: Permanent Employee. Fruit shipments Dave McKenna: Permanent Employee. Year in Review A decline in fruit vessels has seen us Rueben Nepia: Employed on a casual 2010 was, as we all know another year in now down to five as most apples go in basis. recession and a necessity for cutbacks and containers, meaning less work for our Doug Boyd: Employed on a casual basis. trimming costs and profits to a minimum, stevedores as the port company moves the Stephen Pritchard: Proxy member, although the Port Companies around the containers. employed on a casual basis. country seem to be doing alright, judging Peter Jarman: Proxy member, employed on from their distribution of profits to their Out of port a casual basis. respective shareholders. The two stevedoring companies operating Our stevedores have been working out Seafarers’ Representative in the port, C3 and Hawke’s Bay of port on occasions to Bluff, Timaru and Alf Boyle: Employed on a casual basis. Stevedoring Services have found the going Wellington tough this year, but both seem to have Both C3 and HBSS have three members come through without too much harm and Finances employed on a permanent basis and two hopefully 2011 will be kinder to them, as The branches financial position has members who are employed on a casual we hope it will be to all of our members. improved with us moving to 1% fees and basis on the Branch Executive. seafarers working offshore. We have now This gives both companies full donated to Pike River appeal, earthquake representation at Branch level. relief funds, and the Merchant Navy Also the members employed on a casual Association. basis have the ability to send a proxy member along to the meeting if they are Christmas party not available or are working. We also have Alf Boyle as the Seafarers’ A successful xmas party was held in representative, when he is on leave from December at the Turf Hotel. Rick Tidmarsh his seafaring duties. and his Ukelele band played. We had a great turn out from retired stevedores, seafarers and current members.

Employment The casual stevedores have had more employment this year and also the seafarers after lean months leading up to the end of last year.

Branch elections As we had a vacancy for the branch, vice president Tony Westrupp was elected unopposed at our April stop work meeting.

22 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz BRANCH REPORTS Port Chalmers Dunedin by Phil Adams

Branch executive Our Local election was held in May, we had three run for President, three for vice president and 10 candidates for 5 places on executive. The election results were President Ben George, Vice-president Stu Crawford, Secretary Phil Adams and on the Executive we have Paul Napier, Mark Middleditch, Nic Abernethy, Tim Camp and K. O'Brien. This is a good young team which is a good sign for the future.

Port Chalmers Cargo Services Port Chalmers Cargo Services have held on to log contracts from ISO, so this is a good result for the port. We have just ratified their agreement for 2 At the May 2011 national executive meeting, from left, Port Chalmers Dunedin Local 10 observer Steven Smith (aka years with a 24/7 agreement for five lads Diesel), Auckland Local 13 observer Pita Vete, Napier Branch observer Greg Keen, and New Plymouth Branch Delegate Tansley Rapatu (photo by Victor Billot) who have started with the company. All are very pleased with their wages and conditions, and given the amount of work currently being done, their future and that Graeme Wall Obituaries of the company looks assured. We have recently had the misfortune to see With it being the 60th anniversary of the The new delegate Kelvin Pearce who took our vice president and national executive 1951 lockout, it is with great sadness we over from the long serving Noel Currie is observer Graeme Wall lose his job for record the loss of the last two surviving doing a sterling job. various reasons following mediation. 1951 lockout veterans in Port Chalmers. Graeme served our branch well in his time Walter (Ginger) Meehan and Gordon Terminal with us and his contribution will be sorely (Buck) Forgie were grand workers and The terminal is to lose the 4100 vessels missed. loyal members of the Port Chalmers in August to be replaced by 2900 vessels. Waterfront Workers’ Union for many This will have no effect on manning as the Ian Quarrell years. Walter Meehan represented New Zealand place is very busy. Long serving branch member Ian Quarrell in soccer during the 1951 Lockout and was attended his last National executive helped by not only his family but the local Random Testing meeting in May as he did not stand this union when he travelled overseas with the year for president of the Branch. Our port company is having meetings soccer team during the Lockout. In his own words "it was time to step regarding introducing random drug and At their funerals, their great sacrifices aside and let new blood take over and I alcohol testing but we have told them that in the lockout and their contribution to am confident that Port Chalmers branch’s we would only be part of it if our national our union over the many years, were future as the main union in the port will executive approves. remembered. remain and prosper which in turn is good They must address fatigue or we will not Walter is the father in law of Branch for our members. I will always be there if be part of any of it, and the local RMTU Secretary Phil Adams and grandfather of needed to assist the Union in whatever is have stood by us on this. branch member Fraser Adams. required. We note the passing of David Dick’s father In my time on the National Executive I “Sale” of holidays Jock who also went through the 1951 have met a lot of good people and believe lockout, Jock passed away recently and With the law change for selling off the National Executive is paramount to we extend our deepest sympathy to David holidays we have had some inquiries from keeping our union united and long may and his family. members. that be." We also note the passing of seafarer As the majority are wanting more Thank you to Ian for his service to the and local identity Alan McDonald, and holidays not less, and this being part of branch and the Union over the years. any negotiations, we would not condone likewise extend our condolences to his members selling off holidays and we have family. been helped by the company who will not allow it any way.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 23 BRANCH REPORTS

We had a positive outcome with the The ship suffered some damage which will Wellington exclusion of rights to access from the be assessed. document, one of the new laws created by There is also rumoured to be a deep sea Seafarers the Government from 1 April. drilling project coming up in summer in an area known as the deepwater Taranaki by Mike Clark NIWA basin undertaken by a US company, Anadarko Petroleum. Another Government Department with This is one of the largest independent Election 2011 constraints on their spending. oil and gas exploration and production We have had one full meeting with their What an interesting time in Parliamentary companies in the world which was management and consequently they politics. founded in 1959 with its headquarters in have rejected most claims as being too On the right, there was Don Brash’s Texas, USA. expensive, and stating there has been 35 unconventional rolling of the leader of the With the huge costs involved in bringing a staff made redundant on the Scientific and ACT party he had not yet joined, and John rig or ship capable of this work Anadarko office side of the business. Banks set to rejoin the political ranks and will be looking at forming a consortium to Industrial action cannot be ruled out to stand for Epsom in the November General share the cost and drill other wells. Election. achieve an outcome. Another problem is there has been a The press aptly naming them the 1951 “codgerati”. To go alongside this directive from the Government that there development, Hone Harawira’s launched will be no backdating of any increases. This year marks the 60th Anniversary of his breakaway group Mana, which is more the biggest industrial confrontation in than likely to include Left Wing activists Strait Shipping New Zealand’s history. Although not as violent as the great strike of 1913, the 1951 Sue Bradford and Matt McCarten, but Further to my earlier report on Kiwirail, waterfront lockout lasted longer, 151 days could also include Willie Jackson and John they have leased their old vessel Monte from February to July. Minto. What will the November Elections Stella to Kiwirail for a five month period At its peak it involved 22,000 wharfies, bring to us all? while the Aratere is away. seafarers and other trade unionists who Running alongside this will be the Over Easter and a rough patch of weather, were off the job. This out of a population referendum on whether we want to keep one of their other vessels the “Santa of just under two million. MMP (mixed member proportional) Regina” collided with a trawler while To commemorate this historic event electoral system or to return to the old backing into its berth in Wellington. a successful event was held at the “First Past the Post”. This left a 4 metre gash in the starboard Wellington Maritime Museum on 18 May, To my way of thinking MMP has to be the quarter that had to be repaired before she to coincide with our national executive fairer option of the two given the fact with could resume sailing. meeting. MMP the seats a party gets in Parliament Maritime New Zealand is investigating the matches the votes they win at Election collision which also damaged the fishing time. trawler. Under a system like “First Past the Post” a party can get fewer votes than their Offshore competitor and still win an election. I would certainly urge members and their The bulk of seafarers who were gainfully family and friends to vote to keep MMP employed over the past several months in Wellington because if we manage to maintain the Australia are now back home waiting for current system, this will make sure there more work opportunities to arise. There were indications given to MUNZ at Waterfront will be an independent review of MMP thus ensuring a fairer system moving a series of meetings held in Australia late by John Whiting forward. last year and earlier this year that there would be ongoing work for us. Greetings from MUNZ members on the Kiwirail A number of contributing factors has lead to the current downturn. One issue is the Wellington Waterfront. We are currently ratifying the Collective Tender process with all the players in the Agreement for a Two year document with industry vying for contracts. 1951 Waterfront Lockout 60th Anniversary Interislander for the Cook Strait. Another danger and a very real one is the Following the highlighting of the Lockout This has been a lengthy process for a issuing of 457 visas to foreign nationals to anniversary in the last issue of the “ variety of reasons. The main one being work for lesser terms and conditions. Maritimes” it was a particular pleasure to the Board has a mandate from the Hopefully this will soon be resolved participate in a special commemorative Government to keep spending on state resulting in more employment for MUNZ function held by the Union in May at the assets to a minimum. members. Wellington Maritime Museum. One of the positives from this round of In April the drilling vessel Noble In attendance were our National Officers, negotiations has been the merger of the Discoverer operating in the Taranaki Council, Observers, and overseas two current documents into one. offshore alongside the Maui gas field had Delegates together with representatives The Aratere has now in Singapore for to head into deeper water after some of the from New Zealand Unions who were allies major refurbishments and the Monte Stella anchor cables snapped as the vessel rolled of the Locked Out workers in 1951. has been leased from Strait Shipping to in seven metre seas. Of special note was the attendance of take up the slack while the Aratere is away. These were whipped up by a storm that two Veterans from the 1951 Wellington The Kaitaki and Arahura have been caused major damage throughout the Waterfront, namely Charlie Finall (aged extremely busy moving freight back and Taranaki region. 89) and his wife Doreen and Russell forth. On the plus side, none of the 114 personnel French (aged 84) and his wife Thelma. It has been a busy time for crews with bad was injured in what would have been a Great to have these stalwarts of the weather and lots of lashings to contend scary time given the fact that the vessel struggle with us on this special occasion. with. is an old log ship with a 35 metre drill derrick sitting mid-ship.

24 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz BRANCH REPORTS

Work Place Drug and Alcohol Testing This matter was subjected to an intensive debate at our recent National Council meeting and a decision was taken to authorise Branches to negotiate around random saliva testing subject to various provisions being agreed. We are entering talks with CentrePort Wellington aimed at reaching a policy that will monitor on the day impairment in the workplace. This will be in conjunction with the other Unions that are parties to the CentrePort drug and alcohol policy.

CentrePort Collective Agreement Negotiations have been underway for three months. Delays have occurred while discussions have continued between the company and our work shop colleagues over proposed serious changes to the engineering schedule of the Collective. These discussions have now been Maritime Union of Australia women’s officer Mich-Elle Myers (right) was a guest speaker at the CTU Women’s Conference in May 2011 concluded and in the last week of May we have reached finality on renewal of the whole Collective Agreement. Unfortunately, this is enabled by We are awaiting a clean sheet from the Women's issues confidentiality clauses within work places Company and are looking to report the that stop women having the freedom to document to the members about mid – are Union issues discuss their wages with anyone. June. Back dating to 8 February is agreed. The choice of signing these confidentiality by Fleur Bishara clauses is removed as often women are in CentrePort Replacements MUNZ 650 a position of need – they either sign and Recent months have seen the agreed It was my pleasure to attend the CTU risk being paid less for a job also filled retirement and replacement process Biennial Women’s Conference held at the by men earning more, or don't sign and underway with Terry Matthews, Jared Mercure Hotel, Wellington, on Friday 20 continue to look for work in a stagnant job Solomon and Graham Hall moving from and Saturday 21 May. market. P24 to P40 positions and Byron Carter, There were five MUNZ members in If you, like me, think this is unfair, you can Kester Sparrow, and Rupert Simi moving attendance, Marion, Jen, Julieanne, Mea start helping by supporting the Fairness at through from casual to P24 permanents. and myself. Work Campaign. It was a great pleasure and privilege to It is the 21st Century and we still have Branch Elections be amongst a room of 140 likeminded and bullying and discrimination in this strong women. country. Why? Its not OK. Women, stand The following members have been elected We were treated to some passionate and together and stop this, we do not live in to represent the Branch for the ensuing inspirational guest speakers including the dark ages! period pending the election of a combined CTU President Helen Kelly, Maritime One big political issue this year is MMP. Waterfront and Seafarers Executive. Union of Australia women's officer Mich- This year at the election you have the President – Bradley Clifford Elle Myers, and a political panel of women opportunity to decide if MMP stays. MMP Vice President – Terry Matthews MPs, Carol Beaumont (Labour), Catherine is a proportional system. Secretary – John Whiting Delahunty (Green) and Louise Upston The seats a political party gets in Committee – Garry Carter, Tracy Foster, (National). parliament match the votes won in an Andrew Parker, Jason Simi The political panel address was late Friday election. Our thanks and appreciation go to Dave afternoon and a perfect way to finish day A party earning a quarter of all votes earns Winton who has stood down as Branch one. a quarter of seats in parliament. President pending his retirement from MP's belong to their parties because they If a majority of voters in the referendum the industry in August. Dave’s record of believe in their policies, we hope, but in choose to stay with MMP there will be an 45 years as a watersider and before that my mind the speaker that stuck out on independent review. of 10 years in British ships stands up in this day was Catherine Delahunty. She is MUNZ and other unions support the any company. As a Delegate, Executive passionate and seems to genuinely care MMP system. member, and as President, Dave has about people and women’s issues. I have had a fantastic two days listening always stood firm for members interests. There are some big issues facing women to many women with interesting and His input and solidarity at the negotiating today. different ideas and issues in their table could always be counted on 100%. The two main things appear to be pay workplaces. It's tough out there and while I have huge Late notice equity with men in the workplace, and bullying and discrimination. It is shameful amounts of respect for these women I The Wellington Branch is pleased to that after 100 years of fighting for pay know I am lucky in our industry to have announce that the full amalgamation of equity this gap in wages is still alive and pay equity with the men on our ship. the Seafarers and Watersiders has now kicking. Last, but certainly not least, I'd like to been completed and John Whiting has thank all those women who put their time taken up a three day a week job offer as and effort into organising this event, the the Wellington Assistant Secretary. guest speakers and everyone who helped www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 25 BRANCH REPORTS

Bluff Gisborne Lyttelton by Harry Holland by Dein Ferris by Les Wells We have had one or two problems in the The port has been busy with the big Port News movement of logs around the country. last eight months, but we have continued Bluff has had a fair share of them going Eastland Port is now the second largest on under a reduced scale, with all out of the port along with the fertiliser Log export wharf in the Country, behind companies still up and going. and also the good old MSC (old being the only Tauranga. word). ISO handle all this cargo at this point in C3 These ships are still turning around with time and C3 operate the logyard. Has berths available to them for their ships between 450 and 600 boxes. The Tasmania To alleviate the considerable dust and as has LSS with both companies doing has recently done a 700 turnaround which mud problems incurred by log operations logs. is all good for Bluff. Eastland Port has started to seal the log yards. LSS Union grows in Bluff From experience these problems will always remain unless a proper cleaning Working Bulk carriers plus cars, with the Union numbers have had a good boost programme is cars the only trouble is finding space. with our membership going from 18 to 57 instituted. Dust is a hazard. with the Southport men and ladies coming We now have a new carpark outside the Pacifica on board which is working well (a lot of main gate. You get fit by walking to our happy workers.) Pacifica has had a problem with access to rooms and by cleaning your vehicle from We have concluded two agreements since the wharf but is coping with this. either dust or mud. the last meeting with both being ratified I have to say if there is a dirtier Port and its by the members at Southland Stevedoring LPC surroundings, in all my interport transfers Services and Southport. I am yet to see it. The port company has been hit quite hard The Southport bosses have been trying with the Container Terminal taking a lot of the system out by pushing the limits Southern Cross Stevedores damage, of the agreement to which they don’t The coal berth CQ1 has been one of the have a good grip of, ie. calling casuals We have just finished one of the better worst areas hit with the ship loader not in for overtime before permanents, a squash seasons we have had for a few being able to move up and down the final written warning without any other years. wharf. This has meant that the ship has warnings etc. The tonnage was up and the ships took to be moved up and down the wharf and But all in all we’re happy campers. bigger loads, which as you all know, turned around when required. means more hours and better pay. I have to say that the response from Anatoki We have also loaded four or five Kiwifruit C3 towards our members was quite vessels. The Anatoki was in Bluff on 16 April. impressive, in support they offered cranes As the Wellington operation for SXS is When going aboard I noticed the gangway to LPC. administered by the Gisborne Office, the was in a bad state of repair, two handrails Union has agreed with management to were crushed and the slip plate broken. Earthquake when possible utilise Gisborne labour in Asking a crew member, his answer was Wellington. I cannot express enough how well our yip she’s about –––– mate, Because of the cost of airfares we have members and RMTU members have I contacted Joe Fleetwood and the agreed to drive to Wellington. conducted themselves through out this problems have now been fixed. To date this has proved to be Civil Emergency. advantageous to the Company and our To those of you who know Lyttelton it is CTU and election Members. quite heart breaking to see. The CTU are getting active again down Other than transfers to Wellington and Next door to our Union Office three south toward the coming elections. Napier some of you will have seen Gissy buildings have been knocked over. Both Raymond and I have been going to men in your part of the country during In London Street there could be up to five their meetings and Raymond has been busy periods. buildings demolished plus a number of nominated back on to committee of the All permanent staff have completed private houses to go. local Labour party in the Southland area. First Aid courses and have also done the NZQA deck and crane course. Pity the Agreements Port Forum certification achieved is only relevant in The LPC Agreement expired on the 15 New Zealand. Assistant General Secretary Ray Fife April 2011 with the company putting an recently spoke at a forum for port offer to the Combined Unions of 2.5 % Union business company CEO’s that was held in Bluff. increase and a roll over for 12 months. This is the first time we can recall All the Branch finances are now At a Stop-Work meeting of the combined receiving an invitation and Ray reports his administered through National Office. Unions this was rejected, so we will presentation was received well and led to The Branch was saddened by the be going into talks as soon as we find some discussion amongst the employers. resignation of Phil as our president, somewhere to have them. however life moves on and we welcome C3 has indicated to me that they want a Garry into the position. variation in their Contract.

26 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz BRANCH REPORTS Stormy Seas ahead in Retirement by Hector Thorpe MUNZ 3111 NZ Superannuation Fund Seafarers’ Retirement Fund The Trade Union Movement has many The Labour Alliance Coalition The NZ Seamen’s Union Industrial Union objectives including securing workplace Government with support from the Greens of Workers won the right to a subsidised fairness and income during ones working initiated the NZ Superannuation and retirement scheme 39 years ago. life and in retirement. Retirement Income Act 2001. Many of our leaders and rank and file Achieving such conditions requires a The NZ Super Fund or ‘The Cullen Fund’ members knew at that time they would strategy of organised labour supporting a is about establishing a reserve to reduce not be the beneficiaries of such a scheme, political party with similar core values into the raising cost to future taxpayers. yet they battled on winning this condition Government. This is achieved by investing Government for future members and for society. An early example of this occurred after contributions received during the early All annual and financial reports of the the 1890 Australasian Maritime Strike period of the Fund, regenerating these fund are freely available via the public when the Maritime Council supported the over decades of investing, and at a certain domain. Liberal Party into Government in January point currently from 2031, they will begin It is fair to say the assets of $40 million are 1891. making withdrawals from the Fund to significant so recognition must also go to Millar, leader of the Federated Seamen’s help meet the cost at that time of NZ the Trustees for growing and protecting Union of NZ, eventually became Minister Super. the Fund. of Labour. The first New Zealanders to have part of Possible future steps could be merging Significant social and economic gains the cost of their NZ Super met from the the Seafarers’ Retirement Fund with the resulted including the “Industrial NZ Super Fund are currently aged 44 and Waterfront Industry Superannuation Fund Conciliation and Arbitration Act” (1894), the Fund is not expected to peak until which means any profits are returned to which encouraged the growth of unions, today’s 19-year-olds are eligible to retire members through reduced operating cost, and the Shipping and Seamen’s Act, which in 2056. reduced investment management fees and specified minimum crews and safety Over the short term the Fund has built up improved services. conditions. $17 Billion. However, National’s Finance More groundbreaking legislation followed Minister Bill English has suspended Waterfront Industry Superannuation Fund with a variety of superannuation schemes, payments into the Fund. The Waterfront Industry Superannuation and the Old-age Pensions Act 1898. Ever Fund has a website, and every aspect since social welfare has remained an Kiwi Saver of the scheme is transparent and freely important part of our society. Kiwi Saver is another condition initiated available for public viewing including The Trade Union Movement played a by the Labour Progressive Coalition financial statements. significant role in these achievements. with select committee submissions for Although the Waterfront Industry However with political success comes improvements coming from the Council of Superannuation Fund started three years political interference, particularly around Trade Unions (NZCTU). after than the Seamen’s Fund, as of March social polices. Kiwi Saver is a ‘long term retirement 2010 they had 867 current members, 159 Political left parties including Labour Saving Scheme’ which will complement deferred beneficiaries and 8 pensioners and the Labour coalition Governments your NZ Super if it’s still available, and and a substantial fund size of over $116 are credited with broadening the scope your Seafarers’ Retirement Fund or million. of such entitlements while the National Waterfront Industry Superannuation Fund, or National coalition Governments have to provide a better standard of living in Reference consistently undermined any advances. your retirement. www.nzsuperfund.co.nz This swinging pendulum of political www.workandincome.govt.nz Nobody has to join Kiwi Saver. But fortune causes uncertainty. www.sorted.org.nz practically everyone 18 to 64 who starts a But it should not deter members accepting www.munz.co.nz new job will automatically be enrolled. other employer-subsidised retirement www.wisf.co.nz Shortly after joining, you can opt out if www.maritimesuper.com.au schemes such as Kiwi Saver. you wish. Anyone else from babies to www.auscoalsuper.com.au www.maryholm.com NZ Superannuation 64-year-olds, working or not working is eligible. NZ Super is the State pension paid from For those already in Kiwi Saver nearly $6 The views expressed above are those of the the age of 65. billion is invested on your behalf by Kiwi author and do not reflect any advice to Payments are between 66% to 72.5% of the Saver service providers. members by the Maritime Union of New net average wage, meaning the average Those people not enrolled in Kiwi Saver, Zealand. income in the hand is about $13,000 to particularly the young, are missing out on The above article is informational in nature $17,000 per person after tax. a nest egg by retirement age. Should you and any investment decisions by members The reality is many are going to hit 65 and die before withdrawing your KiwiSaver, should be taken with professional advice. find that they have to continue working to the money is not lost as it goes into your fund the life style they aspire to. estate for your dependents. Age Concern says 34% of our older people It’s not too late – even at 60 plus you will are financially strapped. Under National get the Government subsidy, plus your Party policies, I can not see that percentage employer contributions, and your money improving. is tied up for only five years. The two maritime industry funds (WISF and SRF) both have become a Kiwi Saver Service Provider.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 27 OBITUARIES

But his was a life cut short. He was In 1990 he sought the nomination as the diagnosed with cancer early this year Labour candidate for the Dunedin North and died on April 23 of complications electorate, losing to Pete Hodgson. following surgery to remove a tumour on Following a disagreement with the party his pancreas. he resigned in 1992, later co-founding the Speaking at his funeral, his daughter, short-lived South Island party which stood Jayne Macfarlane, said her father had lived five candidates, including himself, at the a full life “at a cracking pace” and she did 1999 election. not think he would miss a long retirement He stood eight times for a Dunedin City with nothing to do. Council seat, contested the mayoralty He had already retired once, in 1990, after twice, and as recently as last year was a completing 30 years as a merchant seaman. candidate for the Otago Regional Council. He spent about a decade in a variety of Mr McDonald was enormously proud of jobs including owning and running a cafe his Lebanese heritage. He was a member in South Dunedin and working as a PD of the Cedars of Lebanon Club all his life supervisor, as well as immersing himself and was appointed co-ordinator in 2000. in his community involvement. Club President Richard Joseph credited Mr However, he never lost his hankering for McDonald with reviving the clubs fortunes the sea. He returned to seafaring in the by working behind the scenes to secure early 2000s and was still working as an grants from many sources. able bodied seaman when he became ill. When the difficult decision was made Perhaps appropriately, his final vessel was in 2002 to sell the clubrooms, it was Mr the New Zealand coastal trader Spirit of McDonald who dealt with the real estate Endurance. agents and prospective buyers and helped Born and raised in Dunedin, Mr McDonald “reinvent” the club in its present form. Alan William was the fourth child and only son of Mr Joseph said one of Mr McDonald’s Rose and Ron McDonald. Rose was the lasting legacies would be Lebanon’s McDonald daughter of draper’s shop owners Habib Children: a pictorial history of the and Saada Bacos, first-generation Lebanese Otago/Southland Lebanese Community, 9 January 1944 – 23 April 2011 immigrants who had arrived separately in published in 2004, which he contributed to Dunedin in the late 19th century and who and edited. Alan McDonald packed a lot into his 67 became absorbed into the city’s large and “It was Alan’s baby.” years. close-knit Lebanese community. Mr McDonald would also be remembered His almost 40-year career as a merchant With three older sisters, he had “four for organizing and helping record oral seaman took him to all parts of the globe mothers - and about 200 Lebanese history interviews with about 30 members for weeks at a time, but when he was aunties”, Jayne Macfarlane said. of the Lebanese community, some of home he spent his time volunteering with Mr McDonald was educated at High whom had since died, Mr Joseph said. dozens of community organisations. St School and Christian Brothers High Mr McDonald’s Lebanese links were A sociable man with a genuine interest School, leaving at 15 to begin a carpentry commemorated at the funeral when many in people, he loved nothing better than a apprenticeship. of those attending placed sprigs of cedar chat. As his long-time friend and Maritime The following year he signed up as a deck on his casket. Union of New Zealand colleague Joe hand on the coastal trader Kaimanawa, a Mr McDonald is survived by his children Fleetwood said at his funeral, he could move which launched his career aboard and four granddaughters. “talk the ear off a teddy bear”. all manner of ships never boats. At that This obituary by Allison Rudd is reprinted He also enjoyed a laugh, a party, a debate, time, his mother ran a boarding house in from the Otago Daily Times. a challenge, or better still – a campaign. Neidpath Rd where seafarers were regular Among the groups with which Mr guests during their shore leave and he McDonald was involved were the likely decided to sign on after hearing Maritime Union (which awarded him stories of their adventures. life membership in the 1990s), the His voyages took him all over the Otago Trades Council, Dunedin City world. On a visit to Melbourne he met Council Civil Defence committee, Liz Starford and the couple married Cedars of Lebanon Club, Otago Boxing in Dunedin in 1968. They had two Federation (of which he was patron), New children,Jayne and Paul, before divorcing Zealand Federation of Ethnic Councils, in 1981. Dunedin Multi-Ethnic Council, Dunedin A favourite destination was Toronto, Beneficiaries Rights Centre and Otago Canada. He also made many trips by ship Settlers Association. and aeroplane to watch the All Blacks play He was also a Justice of the Peace, a overseas and regularly visited Stockholm, marriage and funeral celebrant, an ardent Sweden, where his son, a hotel manager, rugby fan and a Carisbrook season ticket settled about 10 years ago. holder since 1970. A long-time member of the Labour Party, Meticulous, unfailingly reliable, tenacious, Mr McDonald was a Labour member of opinionated and feisty, Mr McDonald was the Otago Harbour board from 1986-89. proudly working class and cared about the Despite seeking roles in local and national wellbeing of ordinary people. politics over the next 20 years, he was unsuccessful.

28 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz OBITUARIES

Even after his retirement, he was a joy to be with having a few refreshments at the Port View Club in New Plymouth every other Friday afternoon. He was forever asking about his old ship mates and members in the offshore industry, whom he would regularly bump in to. Harry made his final voyage on Thursday afternoon 24 February 2011 at 3pm with two members of the union. Mr Colin Wilson and Mr Arthur Whittaker were part of the pall bearing party. I was part of the colour party for Harry to pass through on to the stand at the crematorium. The service covered Harry’s war time service and his ongoing sea service, and his commitment to Topsy throughout her life and all of his extended family. To me, Harry is a great loss after knowing him for 40 years but I will always have good memories of him. We wished Harry Bon Voyage to be with Martin David John his family. Contributed by Richard Casparis, 2547 (Dave) Butler

Henry Arthur 19 July 1939 – 2 May 2011

Dave Butler was a well known figure at (Harry) Reed Harry loved and respected the sea. Waterside House for many years, and local 8 January 1927 – 21 February 2011 Harry was born in England. At just 14 Wellington identity. Harry lied about his age and went to sea The early part of his career in the 1960s as a deck boy. It is fair to state that the and 1970s saw him busy in a number of It is with great regret that I have to inform many mates that he made at sea become roles, as a researcher, public servant, editor the membership that Harry Reed passed his family. and union official. away peacefully at home after a long ill- Harry carved out a good life for himself He was a graduate of Auckland and ness on 21 February 2011. He was aged 84. travelling the many oceans of the world. Victoria Universities, studying part time Harry was a very staunch long serving Eventually and as fate would have it in economics, political science and public member of the Union for many years Harry blew into New Plymouth’s port and administration. before his retirement. it was here that he met his future wife. Mr Butler worked for the Air Department Harry went to sea in 1943 on English ships Harry made many life long mates in New and Transport Department in the 1960s, throughout the rest of WWII. He was Plymouth, deciding to remain in New and served on the national executive of the hospitalised in Australia in the early 1950’s Zealand. He married a local Maori girl and PSA. with a hernia and then made his way to finally found himself a land based family. In 1966 he contested the Stratford New Zealand when he was well. Working Harry’s personality ensured that he was electorate as Labour Party candidate. at sea and leaving for a period of time after quickly accepted and respected by his new At the New Zealand Storeman and Packers he met Topsy in Wellington, they moved family and mates. Harry will always be Federation between 1973 and 1977 he was to New Plymouth where he worked on the remembered as a man of courage and old responsible for preparing general wage Harbour Board for a period of time in the world values, he was a true gentleman. orders. Mooring Gang. Harry knew and endorsed the value of When the Storemen’s Federation He then returned to sea for the rest of his hard work, he was honest and he believed eventually started working with the working career before he retired out of the in fairness. He never complained instead Waterfront Union, Mr Butler spent much industry. he simply made the best of any situation. time at the offices of the Union assisting To me, Harry is a great loss, as he showed Those who knew Harry would all agree with research and media monitoring. me and no doubt many other members of that they were fortunate to have had him Mr Butler retained a strong interest and the industry good seamanship and was walk in their lives even if it not for a long encyclopedic knowledge of New Zealand always willing to show us better ways time, Harry was a true mate always loyal politics and economics, says former of doing our job, ie wire splicing, rope and generous to those he loved. General Secretary of the Maritime Union splicing, rigging. Harry’s presence on this earth was Trevor Hanson. Harry always spoke his mind and would perhaps to teach those that he met, along He completed a complex road transport not take fools lightly. Harry was also the way, the value of humanity and submission for the Union in 2009, says Mr a very staunch unionist. He was also kindness. Harry Reed ‘old salty dog’ has Hanson. extremely good at putting ships in bottles left us but his memory remains. Mr Butler died on 2 May 2011. and the excellent rope work around the Trish McGuigan caps. As a ship mate, you could not ask for Waitara better. He and Topsy always welcomed people (Editor’s note: The Maritimes apologizes for the mistaken with open arms to their home and would reference to Lyttelton in the last edition. We have received bend over backwards to help them if need two obituaries for Harry since then, we have printed both above.) be.

www.munz.org.nz The Maritimes | Winter 2011 | 29 OBITUARY

When it all died down, Mr Gregory found himself back on to the Wellington waterfront in late 1952. He continued working there until 1967 when a fall inside a ship’s hold resulted in him having to leave the job as a 43-year- old with health problems. He then worked for a period as a freezing worker at the Ngauranga Freezing Works. During this period the industrial noose once again hung over his head. Swift NZ Ltd decided to close the works in 1973. Mr Gregory was at the forefront of the redundancy fight to obtain a final remuneration package from the company for his fellow workers. After once again losing out to redundancy, Mr Gregory and his family found themselves back on the breadline. But soon after followed the happiest days of his working life. He returned to sea as a crewman on the Cook Strait ferries. Away from the workplace Mr Gregory was When the ship finally reached Auckland active in the community. Thomas (Tom) he and most of his crewmates, with the In the 1960s his love of soccer saw him scent of true freedom in their nostrils for accept a number of administrative roles. Gregory the first time in their lives, jumped ship in He was secretary and manager of the New Zealand. Waterside AFC, as well as being the club’s He naturally gravitated towards the NZ representative on the Wellington Football 16 June 1924 – 27 February 2011 Seamen’s Union and returned to sea on Association. Tom Gregory was born in to a working the New Zealand coast. In January 1949 He was also secretary of his local class Liverpool family, the son of he married Pat Hill from Petone. It was a soccer club, Western Suburbs and was Archibald Gregory, a World War I marriage which lasted for 62 years. awarded with a life membership for his veteran who worked as a fishmonger. Mr Mr Gregory played his part in making the involvement with this club. Gregory’s poverty- stricken upbringing marriage work by realising he would have The old seafarer finally came ashore in saw him leave school at an early age to to spend more time on dry land. Seafarers 1986 and happily lived out his retirement work long hours for six days a week in the in those days were able to go on leave only years in Porirua. Penny Lane area of Liverpool in a butcher when their ship was tied up or when they He was a life member of the Porirua RSA, shop. were paid off. where his funeral service was held. He Being a bright young man Mr Gregory Mr Gregory realised this was a recipe for loved nothing better than having a beer put a maritime bolt-hole plan in place to marital disaster and solved the problem with his mates at the RSA in latter years. escape the rigours of his butcher’s shop by coming ashore voluntarily in late The wording on the 1951 loyalty card he employment. 1949, when he became a member of the received from the New Zealand Waterside He opted to escape the economic ravages Wellington Watersiders’ Union. Workers’ Union best sums up Mr of the Depression by going to sea as a boy Once again it was a case of out of the Gregory’s approach to his long life. rating. In his new career he worked his frying pan in to the fire. He “stood loyal right through” to his way up through the bowels of the engine He was on the wharves in Wellington, working-class principles, wartime room to become a ship’s fireman. working alongside such people as Ted shipmates, wife Pat, family, friends and He was a member of the Merchant Navy Thompson and Jack O’Donnell, when the workmates. Not only that, he rebuffed just throughout World War II and in March biggest waterfront blue in New Zealand about everything life could throw at one 1943 his ship sank after being torpedoed history occurred. man. on a memorable trans-Atlantic convoy Mr Gregory was on the receiving end Sources: Jane Gregory-Vaughan, Robert supply run. when the Federation of Labour sided Gregory and John Whiting. When the tide turned in the war Mr with the Government in an effort to Obituary by Tim Donoghue, reprinted Gregory participated in the June 6, 1944, smash waterfront strongman Jock Barnes’ from The Dominion Post D-Day invasion of France when troops and wharfies. supplies were unloaded on to Normandy Troops manned the wharves to protect beaches. non-union labour. It was an era in which After the war the young man in his early civil liberties were crushed. Ironically, war 20s, who had learned all there was to veterans like Mr Gregory were branded as know about people being swallowed traitors by the National Government. up by the sea, joined the large coal-fired Mr Gregory and his family were reduced SS Mahana bound for New Zealand via to abject poverty as they were confronted Africa. with emergency powers which prevented friends from providing financial assistance throughout the 151 days of the dispute.

30 | The Maritimes | Winter 2011 www.munz.org.nz LETTERS & BRANCH CONTACTS

Free trade How can we regulate power prices if we Whangarei Mobile: 021 855121 I wish to respond to two items in your last don’t own the power companies? Where Fax: 09 459 4972 edition of The Maritimes regarding free do we get the $700 million we Address: PO Box 397, Whangarei earn from our power companies each year Email: [email protected] trade agreements and the Trans Pacific Partnership in particular. for schools and hospitals, if we have sold Auckland Local 13 The General Secretary’s report contained those same power companies? Phone: 09 3034 652 some legitimate concerns about free trade We have learned from that wretched Fax: 09 3096 851 experiment in the 1980s. It just about split Mobile: 021 326 261 (President Garry Parsloe) deals, especially when John Key appears 021 760 886 (Secretary Russell Mayn) to be so uninformed about them and even the Labour Party apart. 021 670002 (Walking Delegate D. Phillipps) less committed to getting the best for New Tell your members to go to our Stop Asset Address: PO Box 1840, Shortland Street, Zealand from them, or protecting New Sales campaign on www.labour.org.nz Auckland 1140 and join us. We can not afford to lose Email: [email protected] Zealand’s interests. [email protected] For the record, Labour has several this election this year. The Nats will sell [email protected] concerns about the TPP negotiations everything they can lay hands on – to their rich mates. Mount Maunganui including their lack of transparency, Phone: 07 5755 668 agreements around investment including So while we are saving our state- Fax: 07 5759 043 land sales, intellectual property provisions, owned assets, let’s also push for greater Mobile: 0274 782308 and threats to Pharmac. transparency in trade deals. Address: PO Box 5121, Mt. Maunganui Email: [email protected] Our policy is to break open the process Yours sincerely surrounding free trade negotiations, and Maryan Street MP Gisborne Local 38 in fact to put a group together including Opposition Spokesperson on Foreign Mobile: 025 6499697 Affairs and Trade Address: 5 Murphy Road, Gisborne unions, employers, academics and NGOs, Email: [email protected] which could provide the Minister with contestable advice about the extent to New Plymouth which any free trade deal might enhance Earthquake Mobile: 021 233 8193 Address: PO Box 659, New Plymouth or compromise New Zealand’s interests. Email: [email protected] And this includes workers’ interests, as The staff at C3 Lyttelton would like to well as our ability to own our own future. Napier thank our colleagues and the management And that brings me to the second item in Phone/Fax: 06 8358 622 most sincerely for their generous Mobile: 027 6175441 your last edition. donations to our staff and their families Address: PO Box 70, Napier Phil Adams from Port Chalmers wrote Email: [email protected] following the recent earthquake on that the differences between Labour and February 22md. National over the TPP were only ones of Wellington It was humbling to learn of your kindness Phone: 04 3859 288 (Secretary Mike Clark) degree, not principle. and support, and your personal efforts 04 8017 619 (Asst. Secretary John Whiting) It is true that we support advances in Fax: 04 3848 766 will make a big difference to us all. We New Zealand’s fortunes as a trading Mobile: 0274 538222 (Secretary Mike Clark) were all affected by the earthquake in 021 606379 (Asst. Secretary John Whiting) nation, for the sake of all New Zealanders. some way with loss and destruction to our Address: PO Box 27004, Wellington We are good at producing high quality homes and lives, and a lot of us face long Email: [email protected] commodities and services and I will work [email protected] delays as our houses wait to be repaired or as hard as anybody rebuilt. Wellington Stores and Warehouse Local 21 to get more and better jobs for New Our streets and suburbs don’t look the Phone: 04 3859 520 Zealanders, more value-added products Fax: 04 3848 766 same anymore, and the Township of being produced onshore and better access Address: PO Box 27004, Wellington Lyttelton has been destroyed with a lot of for our goods around the world. buildings already demolished. Nelson I don’t make any apology for that. We are all looking forward to the future Fax: 03 5472104 But there is most definitely a difference Mobile: 027 6222691 and getting back to “normal”. between us and the Nats over asset sales. Address: PO Box 5016, Nelson Once again with thanks, on behalf of the Email: [email protected] We are adamantly opposed to state asset team. sales. C3 Staff Lyttelton Local 43 Phone: 03 3288 306 Lyttelton 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]

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