The DECEMBER 2018

TransporThe journal of the RMTU – NZ'st largest Worker specialist transport union

Sanity prevails: EFs retained 2 Contents Editorial ISSUE 4 • DECEMBER 2018

12 Shane Jones does Hutt Shops

MP Shane Jones paid a visit to Hutt Workshops to familiarise himself with what the Work- shops can do and the affects of HPHE at the work face.

14 Biennial Conference Wayne Butson General secretary RMTU

Once again your Union held a very successful conference in Wellington with Plenty of positives a line-up of inspiring speakers. HIS time last year I wrote that rail, coastal shipping, public transport and regional development would see real gains during this Parliamentary term 36 Mongolian magic and that by late 2018 it would be a great time to be an RMTU member. Pare-Ana Bysterveld The good news is that by and large all has come to pass. (pictured) reports So it was with great joy that I was a member of the RMTU team to attend the Labour TParty Conference in Dunedin this year. That was its official name. However, we, and from the ICLS conference in a number of other parties, were calling it the Labour and RMTU Victory Conference. Mongolia where she Labour because, despite the nay-sayers, we remain with a viable coalition Gov- was blown away in ernment with partners working well together, and who, just one week prior, had more ways than one. announced a $35m funding of the rejuvenation of the North Island Main Trunk electric locomotives. When we launched the campaign to save the electric locos in 2016 I certainly did not fully appreciate the difficulty we would have in getting the victory and, secondly how we would pick up support from a wide range of community and environmental COVER PHOTOGRAPH: RMTU members of the groups, academics and other like-minded individuals. Palmerston North electrics depot celebrate the Some were prepared to be outspoken publicly, others were prepared to support government's decision to invest $35m to in the background. I especially recognise the support and work of Roger Blakeley, refurbish KiwiRail's EF locos and turn the NIMT Paul Tolich, Chris Flatt and Nigel Haworth as their pushing was influential in get- away from diesel. ting us over the line. Thank you to each and everyone of you who did something to Page 4. support our Save the Electrics campaign. It is essential to celebrate our wins and I have the empty bottles to prove that I did. Sadly, I get asked from time to time: "What does the Union do for me?" The Transport Worker is published by the Thankfully this is always easy to answer as we are year on year a Union which Rail and Maritime Transport Union, P O Box 1103, Wellington, boxes way above its weight and get the wins to match our power and influence. Aotearoa–New Zealand. In 2018 we achieved a financial surplus despite the battles we were in. We also Design and production by Mike Regan. grew our Union membership, trained a strong cohort of Union and H&S delegates, continued our campaigns for the living wage, Straight to Auckland Airport rail, the Printed by Pivotal+Thames Publications Ltd, Auckland cross harbour rail link, Grow Northland Rail, Keep our Port in Napier, P O Box 11–025, Wellington. Keep our Assets in Christchurch, Hamilton to Auckland Commuter trains, opposing driver-only operation in Auckland and maintained our strong support for the "Just www.rmtunion.org.nz say No" challenge. The RMTU is a struggle-based Union so we must always have the desire to fight The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport ISBN 1173–6488 LETTERs 3 for something better. Resignations Let us also not forget that we had What has Jacinda success in the KiwiRail wage round by Ardern and Labour Dear Editor negotiating a landmark pay deal by having It is with regret that I tender my resigna- a universal flat rate increase of $1.63 per done this last year? tion from our great Union. hour to everyone on the collective agree- A series of medical misadventure ere’s a handy list of their ment. However, there have also been other incidents which have resulted in continu- achievements. Making your very successful wage rounds for members ing ill health and loss of physical strength vote count matters and this employed by other employers. has forced me to take medical retirement list proves it! In this issue of the magazine there is a H from my job with Hyundai-Rotem. n Extended paid parental leave story and graph which shows the premium Over my years in KiwiRail and Rotem n Stopped foreign purchasing of Kiwi that unionised workers now have over I have been impressed by, and grateful homes other workers in wage outcomes. It truly for, the strength and talents of the team n Made first year tertiary fees-free pays to be in a union! at the Union headquarters and the help n Running a healthy surplus In the last year I have also been asked: given by reps at Hutt Workshops and n Delivered on 2022 debt target four “What has the Government even done?" Thorndon Depot, Wayne Butson, Phil years early I have to admit that it’s hard to blame Bosworth, Howard Phillips and n Lowest unemployment level since people for not knowing because the media Todd Valster. 2008 prefer to create and cover 'scandals' for I have been in the work- n Stopped state house sell-off reactions instead of what matters. But force for over 60 years and have always n Built its first KiwiBuild homes even I was shocked at just how much this been a union member in whichever n Restarted Super Fund contributions coalition government has done in its first industry I was working. This included n Established the Pike Rive Recovery year in office. 30 years in the NZ Printers Union with Agency To help everyone understand we have many years on their board of manage- n Increased the minimum wage published a list of some of their achieve- ment. I retained my union membership n Committed to child poverty reduc- ments on this page. There wasn't room even when promoted to middle manage- tion targets for the whole list so we've published the ment. I am convinced that without union n Boosted Family Tax Credits full list on our website. This proves that muscle and that solidarity behind us, we n Increased Working for Families voting matters. have very little power or protection as n Helped new families with Best Start On behalf of the Union president, NMC individuals when faced with often uncar- payment members and staff, I hope and trust that ing and greedy employers, especially n Winter Energy Payment to cover you and yours will all see out the Christ- overseas ones. power bills mas/New Year holiday period safe and I was particularly grateful for strong n Invested in fixing hospitals sound. We are told that the most danger- union backing when for eight months n Frozen MP pay increases ous places are our homes and work but I our employer forced the Wellington n Improved and modernised family reckon that New Zealand's roads over the Carriage Maintenance Team to work out violence laws holiday season are just as dangerous or of a carriage which was moved around n Made GP visits cheaper for 600,000 more so. Please make sure you stay safe the Thorndon yard. When the Union got New Zealanders at all times. involved the situation soon changed. A n Rolling out national bowel screening. Wishing each and every one of you a big portacom was provided and is a very n Delivered on $300 million acceler- Merry Christmas and a happy and joyous adequate office and lunch room. ation fund for Christchurch. . . . 2019. Thank you Wayne and the team for Be RMTU and I know that 2019 will be For a fuller list of Labour's record all your support over the years. Our un- The Transport Worker December 2018 a prosperous year for you all! go to our website: rmtunion.org.nz ion is in good health. Na mihi nui Kia Kaha John Irvine

Wishing all our Union Dear Editor, I have accepted the position of Linehaul members a very Merry Christmas and operations manager in Palmerston North a safe and happy New Year. and therefore, tender my resignation from the National Management Commit- From the president, tee of the RMTU, effective from Decem- general secretary, ber 7, 2018. I have thoroughly enjoyed my times NMC and staff. as an effective representative of the RMTU and have witnessed how profes- 4 LETTERS NIMT

sionally the whole of the RMTU and its represent- atives operate. I look for- ward to continuing a close Time to celebrate working relationship with the RMTU in my new role. John Keenan KIC rep.

Dear Editor, I am writing to you to let you know that I will be ten- dering my resignation from the RMTU on November 9, 2018. It has been a privilege to have been in such a strong Union and I wish you all the very best for your future endeavours. Special mention must go to Tania for all that she has done for us in the past and present. I know how hard it can be motivating and leading our members being a delegate in the past my- Ready, willing and waiting - a line-up of EF locos at Palmerston North. self. However, I also know HE Rail and Maritime Transport Union not less," says Butson. "The highly skilled work- what it felt like winning on welcomes the Government's decision force in KiwiRail's workshops can now build a those odd occasions, more to keep KiwiRail's electric locomotives modern, sustainable fleet of locomotives. We're so in the earlier years of my running on the North Island Main thrilled!" time with NZRail/KiwiRail. Trunk. Deputy Prime Minister and shareholding Todd and Wayne keep TRMTU general secretary Wayne Butson says: Minister Winston Peters said refurbishing these up the good work and I "Despite some earlier indecision the government trains in New Zealand was looking to the future look forward to reading has, in the end, made the right choice. It has not of our environment and economy. about the RMTU's 'innov- only honouring a campaign pledge but its a deci- "We're making the right decision for the long ative initiatives'. sion FOR the environment. It shows clear intent term. Replacing electric locomotives with diesel Jeff Bowdler. to overturn the previous government's blinkered would be a step backwards. view of pollution." "By refurbishing these locomotives here, Dear Editor, The government has committed an extra we're creating jobs in KiwiRail's Hutt Workshop It is with much sadness that $35 million to refurbish the 15 electric engines and supporting our local rail industry. It just I tender my resignation currently in operation between Hamilton and makes sense." from the RMTU effective Palmerston North. Transport Minister Phil Twyford said: "Rail from November 9, 2018. Union members, environmental campaigners connects regions with the cities and helps create I would like to pass on and industry experts have all spoken out about a more modern, sustainable transport network. a special mention to our the importance of investing in electric rail and Keeping the electric trains shows that we are delegate Tania Haraki for the government listened. continuing to invest in the future." all her work and effort that If KiwiRail had been permitted to go ahead A former Secretary for the Environment and she has done for us in the with its plans to replace the EF Class electric an engineer, Roger Blakeley, told National Radio’s past 13 years at Picton locomotives with DL class diesel engines Morning Report this year that KiwiRail’s argument Interislander. imported from China, it would have added an that diesels would be cheaper simply didn’t stack It has been an honour extra 12,000 tons to New Zealand's carbon up – and now this new government agrees. to belong to such a strong footprint and jeopardised a significant number “Refurbishing the electric locomotives was Union and I wish you all of local jobs. always a no brainer,” says Butson. “Diesels are, the very best in the future. "Our position has always been that New quite simply, bad for the environment and way Allan Huntley.

The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport Zealand must electrify more of its rail network, too expensive." Training 5

Training treats

raining days for RMTU delegates the South Island. lying, not anywhere near as straightforward were held in Nelson (above) and For those who have not yet met John, as it might seem. Delegates were also given Dunedin(below) last month. The believe me, he is an inspirational speaker. sound advice on preparation for wage bar- TNelson workshop was attended by del- To hold the interest of everyone in the gaining, organising members to participate egates John Lines, Shayne King, Phil Baines room for seven hours, entirely on his own, in RMTU activities so as to promote a feeling (Picton) and, of course, our branch secre- is no mean feat! of empowerment and unity and how the tary Ann Wells who did an excellent job of John spoke at length about how a del- Union hierarchy works to the advantage of organising us all! egate can help a member who is involved in working people worldwide. Delegates from QuayConnect, Port a dispute, what rights the member has, and It was a very interesting day and of enor- Marlborough and other departments in how to ensure these rights are maximised to mous benefit. Thank you John for your time Port Nelson were present. Our speaker for the member's advantage. We also discussed and thank you Ann for organising it all. the day was John Kerr RMTU organiser for how best to deal with intimidation and bul-

WCC welcomes living wage

Wellington mayor, Justin Lester and Living Wage campaign

organiser, Lindy McIntrye at the The Transport Worker December 2018 recent celebration acknowledging Wellington City Council's commitment to its lower paid workers. Well done WCC. 6 News The union pay premium, 2018

Bill Rosenberg, CTU economist term picture: that there is a worthwhile age hourly wage) would be paying $27.66 ach year I take a look at how in- premium for being on a CEA, particularly in June 2018 if it had risen at the rate of creases in pay rates for people on in the private sector. Further, virtually all increase in CEAs, but only $24.94 if it had collective employment agreements jobs on CEAs get a pay rise (only 1 percent risen at the rate of the LCI, a 10.9 percent E(CEAs) compare with those on individual didn't in 2018) but of those not on a CEA, CEA premium. agreements. only 46 percent got a rise. For the private sector, the premium is In August, the Centre for Labour, Em- Comparing by industry, CEA pay in- 18.0 percent. ployment and Work at Victoria University creases are again higher than those shown For central government, the premium is released their annual analysis of CEAs. It in the LCI. only 3.8 percent, which would be expected shows again that people who are part of In both 2018 and over the seven years with the much higher union and collective a collective get better pay rises: the union 2011 to 2018, CEA increases were higher agreement membership rates in that sector. pay premium. in all industries we can compare except In local government, the premium is For the year to June 2018, wages in health care and social assistance, probably 15.3 percent. CEAs rose on average by 2.2 percent, which because of the way the care and support There is mixed evidence as to the num- is appreciably higher than the 1.9 percent workers' pay equity settlement, which took ber of workers directly benefitting from last year. effect from 1 July 2017, is measured. The these union-negotiated increases. Over the same period, the Labour Cost CEA and LCI increases were very close in The Centre for Labour, Employment Index (LCI), which measures increases in that industry over the seven year period and and Work's data shows a small increase in the pay rate for the job rather than for the any difference is more likely to be due to numbers in CEAs but a still falling propor- individual holding the job, and is domi- the way they are measured rather than a real tion of workers. However Statistics New nated by people on individual rather than difference in this highly unionised industry. Zealand's Household Labour Force Sur- CEAs, rose less: by 1.9 percent. In transport, postal and warehousing, veys showed 413,000 employees said they Private sector CEA pay rates rose 2.9 where most RMTU members work, the were on CEAs in June 2018 (19.2 percent percent, the highest increase since 2013 average increase for jobs on CEAs was 2.1 of employees), a number up 9.7 percent and a big jump from the 1.9 percent in- percent in the year to June 2018, compared from 376,600 in June 2017 (18.2 percent crease the year before, while the private to 1.9 percent for all jobs. Over the seven of employees). sector LCI rose only 2.1 percent, the high- years 2011 to 2018, the average increase Whichever is true, unions are still do- est since 2012 and up from 1.6 percent the on CEAs was 2.3 percent compared to 1.9 ing their job of creating a fairer balance in previous year. percent for all jobs. who gets income, resources and power Central government CEA rates rose Looking at the longer run, a job on a in New Zealand, as the pay premium il- 1.8 percent (the wage of $15 in June 1993 (around the aver- lustrates. same as in 2017) while the central government LCI rose just 1.2, both well behind the private sec- tor. Local govern- ment CEA pay rates rose 2.7 percent (up from 2.5 in 2017), much more than the local govern- ment LCI which rose 1.7 percent. In every case in 2018 there was a clear union pre- mium, confirm- ing the longer The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport ITF 7 ITF Congress 2018 - Singapore HE 44th ITF Congress in Singapore (14-20 October 2018) was an his- toric event as it was the first to be Theld in Southeast Asia in its 122 year history. The Congress included participants from approximately 140 countries, representing over 600 transport unions with more than 19 million members. It was the biggest Con- gress to date, with over 2,000 participants. The guest-of-honour for the opening ceremony was secretary-general of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), Singapore, and minister in the Prime Min- ister's Office, Ng Chee Meng. United against racism! (right) Wayne The Congress aimed to give transport Butson and Avi Edri from the Histadrut, workers a collective voice and to set the Israel's transport union. agenda for the transport unions for the next future of work provides good opportunities five years. It also discussed how digitisation for all transport workers.” is reshaping global transport, along with de- Mary Liew, chairperson of the ITF Sin- veloping strategic policies to guide unions. gapore national coordinating committee ITF president Paddy Crumlin from the (SNCC) and general secretary of the Sin- MUA in Australia opened the Congress and gapore Maritime Officers Union (SMOU), was later re-elected for a further presiden- said: “It’s no coincidence that this Congress work in. Our three reps attended all of the tial term. is being held in Singapore as it focuses on relevant section meetings and Wayne was ITF general secretary Stephen Cotton the future of work in transport. We have re-elected for a further term as the Asia said in his speech: “This Congress is all shown here that by building partnerships Pacific Rail Section chair. David Gobe from about transport workers building power across society and the economy we can the CGT France was elected as the new Rail through innovative campaigns, growing create decent, sustainable jobs – now and Section chair. The outgoing chair, Oystein membership and influencing policy. By for the future.” Aslaksen, attended and spoke at our bien- uniting our efforts, we can ensure that the The RMTU was represented by national nial Conference held the following week president Aubrey Wilkinson together with representatives from ASLEF, (whose day job is as a crane RMT, TWU and RTBU reps. operator in Port Tauranga), By attending the Congress links and national women's NMC repre- relationships are developed and strength- sentative Ruth Blakeley (vessel ened with comrade Unions which facilitates planner at Port Chalmers) and the creation of solidarity alliances when general secretary Wayne But- dealing with international multi-national son. The RMTU is registered companies and corporations. The work- in the Dockers, Rail, Road, ers united shall never be defeated and the The Transport Worker December 2018 Public Transport and Tourism (l to r) Ruth Blakeley (RMTU) flanked by Fatima Ajouz and Congress was a graphic illustration of our sections of the ITF as these Fatima Hammond both from Middle East Airlines, global Union power! Air Liban, Lebanon. are the areas that our members

Wayne Butson (centre) with the Indian Railway Union leaders. 8 Fono Komiti Pasifika fono Two members report: Katrina Kalolo This September, I was lucky enough to be invited to attend the Komiti Pasefika Fono 2018. The big story was about Kristine Barlett who got equal pay for rest home workers – predominantly Pacific Islanders and south-east Asians. The theme of the Fono this year was Voice! Action! Own it! Efeso, an elected Auckland council member, spoke about the history of Pacific people and the struggles in the early 1960s and 1970s. To shape the future of young Pacific people, learning from the past to stand out, stand up and fight for what is right. Fala Haulangi RMTU team with NZer of the year Kristine Bartlett . spoke on behalf of a Sistema worker about the working conditions they face and that Zealander of the Year Kristine Bartlett talk- out about how we, as a minority, deal with the union is your back stop, so you were ing about how she normalised the elderly racism and profiling on a daily basis. pretty much never alone when it comes to care business (which is Asian/Pacific domi- One speaker resonated with me saying: health and safety. nated) and Fa'anana Efeso Collins speaking The struggle we have in terms of racism, exploitation and judge- Campbell Leggett ment towards Polyne- sian is engraved into Being my first time at the Fono New Zealand society. So it was amazing to see all the af- we need to understand filiates: the Dairy Workers Union, these problems and give E-Tu, Unite, the Public Service our people the voice Association, New Zealand Educa- they need to battle these tion Institute and many more who issues. came together in Wellington to It was such an hon- express our people's struggles on our to attend this amaz- being Pacifika in the workforce. ing fono with such a The values of the Fono were to young and promising give a voice, to start action and to group of future delegates own it. And it was really felt at the within our Union. conference with the amazing guest speakers from the likes of New Campbell, Tahana and Katrina learning how to use our voice. Land mark MECA N a land mark agreement both the who will receive less. RMTU and KiwiRail lauded the ease Both RMTU general secretary Wayne Iand affability of their latest MECA Butson and KiwiRail chief executive Peter pay deal. Reidy applauded the deal. The deal signed included a flat rate of “This is a significant pay deal for those higher pay applied across all 2,319 RMTU who need it most,” said Butson. “KiwiRail members, rather than their usual percent- will pay the two year increase up front the RMTU for initiating this innovative age increase. thus adding 6.9% earnings to the rates solution which is not only fair but will help This meant the lowest paid RMTU of those at the bottom of the pay scale.” those who need it most.” workers received the highest percentage “This deal was negotiated within a The pay deal took effect from 1 July increase in their pay-packets – a move day and with immense goodwill on both 2018 and is effective for two years. supported by their higher-paid colleagues sides of the table,” said Reidy. “I commend The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport News 9 Union bids farewell

Aubrey Wilkinson presents an Appreciation Certificate for union services to medically retired NMC South Island rep and Christchurch LE Mike Williams.

Robbie Stevens was a loco engineer in Invercargill who left the job in August 2018. Pictured here with a RMTU South Island organiser John Kerr poses with Mike Williams and Peter gift from the Southland branch. Reidy – both of whom have now left KiwiRail. PORTS RETIREMENT PLAN ARE YOU A MEMBER? The Ports Retirement Plan The Transport Worker December 2018 is open to all port workers.

The plan has an external administrator and contributions are invested with four fund managers.

Download a copy of the Product Disclosure Statement from our website: www.portsretirement.org.nz Issuer: Ports Retirement Trustee Limited 10 Hui

Te Kupenga a Mahi hui-a-tau T was a sunny spring afternoon as we our waiata (song). We all have different munications TOLL) and Keri Limmer (busi- gathered at the gateway of Nga Hau e backgrounds and nationalities within the ness development Te Puni Kokiri). Wha marae in Christchurch. Many of group, so we have individual aspects of Te Te Kupenga Mahi are searching for will- theI Te Kupenga a Mahi whanau hadn’t seen Ao Maori, but as soon as we sing a waiata ing participants for the CTU Runanga Mana each other since the last Hui-a-Tau which we become one. Te Kupenga Mahi haka is Wahine inquiry. was held at Te Puna the previous year, so inspiring. Additionally, the ITUC Just Transition there were a lot of "happy hellos". Te Kupenga Mahi has been going for office are wanting to speak with them Te Kupenga Mahi was established when 29 years. It has seen many changes within regarding their relationship with KiwiRail, it was noted that there was a lack of recog- rail, from different owners to contractors Toll and the Maori network. nition for te ao Maori (the world of Maori) and now a new operator for the metro pas- This type of relationship is unique to within the rail industry. Te Kupenga Mahi senger services. New Zealand and the ITUC are keen to began sharing cultural, social and economic Through these changes, Toll became an explore it more extensively to possibly in- aspirations with the wider community associate of Te Kupenga Mahi who are cur- corporate the cultures of indigenous people through a partnership with rail from a Maori rently in discussions with Transdev. in other countries to possibly help the Just perspective. This was done by acknowledg- The hui-a-tau is also a great way to gain Transition process. ing Maori through the whanau support insight conducive to working in rail through We spent the next few nights bonding policy, Te Kupenga Mahi Study Grant and the guest speakers that attend. This year's over waiata and food. Most of us had to Tangihanga Putea (Group Life Plan). It guest speakers were: extend our belts a notch thanks to the amaz- also facilitated powhiri (welcoming), poro- Jeanine Benson (chief of operations ing kai that the marae had to offer whilst poroaki (farewell), karakia (prayer), waiata South Island), Katie McMahon and Melissa we also collected a few new waiata to put (song) and te pure (blessings) Taylor (GM of Zero Harm KiwiRail), Ani in our songbooks. Since then, the network has grown to Haua and Brenda Warren (kapa haka ex- We look forward to seeing each other become an integral part of KiwiRail. The perts), Heather Haitana (teacher of Te Reo, and meeting new people at next years hui. toi toi leadership programme began and Mihimihi and Mahi Rakau), Grant Lemin If you would like further information is run by Te Kupenga Mahi in conjunction (acting CEO Toll), Carla Bates (KiwiRail please contact Ray Brown at, Raymond. with KiwiRail as a way of mentoring youth team kakariki), Heidi Erceg-Head (Com- [email protected] within the company. The third programme is currently underway, with many original cadets attending. Through this they have also learnt traditional aspects of Maoridom such as powhiri. The haunting karanga of the kuia from within the gate signified that our hui was about to begin. Every year Te Kupenga Mahi gather to discuss matters arising in our com- munities with each district having its own elected representative. After we were called onto the marae, we sat in the wharenui and listened to the The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport whaikorero (speeches) and finished with Some of the particpants at the hui. Labour 11 Different feel to 2018 conference HE 2018 Labour Conference was held in Dunedin November 1st - 3rd. TFor those of us who have attended the last nine Labour conferences or con- gresses, this one certainly had a different feel to it. The RMTU sent seven delegates – Wayne Butson, Aubrey Wilkinson, Howard Phillips, Pat Tutty, Rebecca Hauck, Mel Ryall and Todd Valster. The first day started with sector meet- ings and we attended the union affiliates Te Kupenga a Mahi hui-a-tau meeting. Being only three days since the u-turn announcement on North Island Main Trunk electrification, we were happy to inform other affiliated unions on our win. Other wins included the Equal Pay Campaign with Etu and the work that the Dairy Workers Union was doing on organ- ising the all-but-one of the foreign owned Some of the RMTU delegates at conference with Transport Minister Phil Twyford. (l to r) dairy plants. Todd Valster, Phil, Howard Phillips, Wayne Butson and Aubrey Wilkinson. In the afternoon there was robust dis- cussion and debate on the various remits als and amendments were and policy amendments and proposals spoken to – or against which our team participated in. In the – and then voted on. A evening of the first day the conference was policy proposal that has formally opened by the Dunedin Mayor, been put up in the past Brian Cull. He gave a long speech but he but had not got through, did explain it had been 30 years since the finally was passed, which last Labour conference was held in Dunedin will look at lowering the so there was plenty to tell – then he took age for voting. us back to 1200AD! On day 3 there was There were various presentations and panel of all the Maori MPs panels on day 2. Two that stood out were and, with Labour winning the presentations from Christine Bartlett all of the Maori elector- (equal pay campaigner) and the panel led ates, it was great to see and by the PM with a group of articulate, bright hear from these talented The Maori caucus addressing the conference. young people. Later that day policy propos- MPs. Rotorua and Whan- speech from the Prime Minster. ganui competed for the The conference was open to the public The Transport Worker December 2018 2019 Conference with for this speech and the Town Hall was Whanganui coming out full with long lines of people still trying on top. to get in. The conference closed with a great

Jacinda Ardern at the Labour affiliates meet- ing where she said she was glad money had been found to retain the electric locomotives for the NIMT. 12 NEWS Shane Jones visits Hutt shops

Regional Economic Development Minister, Shane Jones, recently visited Hutt Workshops where the EF locos will be refurbished. He is seen here with Allan McConnochie (l) and a departmental official.

(l to r) Todd Moyle (CEO KiwiRail), Logan Kahui, Dodie Joseph (back to cam- With Dodie Joseph and Kasia Kurene. era), Maryan Street (KiwiRail) and Karl Bouterey. The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport

With Vishwa Dewan and Karl Bouterey. News 13

RMTU WOMEN

Dodie Joseph my foot in the door in the KiwiRail Palm- Union role and why did you become erston North depot in involved? What has been a mem- a train maintenance orable experience in your role as a delegate and branch sec? role, which led me to Women’s delegate for Hutt Workshops. I apply for one of the ap- wanted to get a more in depth look into prenticeships on offer what it means to be apart of a union and at Hutt Workshops. In how we work within the cogs of a company. saying that I also found that mechanics really What has been a memorable ex- took my interest and I perience in your role as a delegate/ am proud to say I love women's rep? what I do today! I really enjoy getting different perspec- What's the best tives from people in roles from all over part of the job? the country or within our committee and coming together to work out how we can The people. Being improve areas within our working place. apart of a company that contributes to Job title and what the job entails? the overall economics Apprentice mechanical engineer. A bit of of NZ. Seeing people everything. Being in the workshop we spe- working together to cialise in project work such as locomotive progress. overhauls, wagon conversions, and opex work. I am in my last year and since starting What's something have been on a three-monthly group rota- that bugs you about tion which consists of mechanical, fabrica- your job? tion, machining, over hauling components The lack of organi- (from locomotive bogies to engine compo- sation and logic within nents), air brakes to electrical, painting and certain areas; that can anything in between. be frustrating some- and workmanship and some negativity times, but it's all learning curves and part towards change. Why did you decide to become a of improvements. Being underestimated as What piece of advice would you give mechanical engineer? a woman working in a male orientated role. I didn’t. It kinda just happened. I did some your 21 year old self? I understand this is still a bit of a new age Lead by example. Be a good role model time in the automotive industry which I thing, but diversity is becoming more and found really motivated me to want to get for future generations ethically and mor- more encouraged within KiwiRail. Some ally to contribute to a better society and trade qualified. I applied for a role through cultural aspects that are still present; not a job search and was lucky enough to get workforce. Open your mind. Get educated. caring enough, for example for our assets Inspire people. Follow your passion. The Transport Worker December 2018 14 Conference Fighting fatigue for safety he third biennial national seminar on fatigue, drawing on conference, and the 21st the latest academic research. delegates' conference, of From the way in which delegates Tthe Rail and Maritime Transport responded this was something Union was very focused from the of an eye opener, both literally moment delegates arrived in Wel- and metaphorically. One key fact lington. We began with forums for was that once you've been awake women, port and rail members on for 17 hours you are impaired to day one and then moved into full a similar level as exceeding the conference on days two and three. drink/driving limit! The RMTU has a well-deserved This session reinforced work reputation in the New Zealand our port delegates had done the union movement, and, indeed, day before on the initiative the among transport unions globally, RMTU had agreed with Quality for being a relentless advocate Marshalling in Timaru – a direct for workers' health and safety. It result of the pattern bargaining is therefore no surprise that our approach endorsed by the RMTU conference's theme was safety Ports Forum in 2017. This un- and in particular, a hazard that derlines a key point: workshops we are increasingly aware of in the and forums need to be followed up by effective organising on the industries we organise in: fatigue. Attorney General Andrew Little and RMTU president ground. Many of our members are shift Aubrey Wilkinson. workers and are employed in safety Once again we were privileged critical roles. Fatigue is a potential for a Union-wide approach that involved to hear from international guests killer. It is fitting that our union has taken industrial, legal and political strategies to from the Norwegian Locomotive Drivers up the challenge and is organising and mobilise our strength to campaign and win Union (as well as being the outgoing chair educating members so we can fight fatigue. on this issue. of the ITF Global Railway Section) Oystein This theme was emphasised very strong- The key session was led by our national Aslaksen, Australian Rail, Tram and Bus ly from the moment conference began. health and safety organiser Karen Fletcher, Union (RTBU) and the Transport Workers' Our general secretary spoke of the need who ran delegates through an interactive Union (TWU), and two British unions – the

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Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers tinue the fight. The British are campaigning and Firemen (ASLEF) and the RMT (Rail and for safety on several fronts – most notably Maritime Transport Union). Their contribu- in their struggles to keep guards on trains. tions were inspirational. The complicating factor is the plethora of The TWU's account of their fight for 'safe rail operating companies that are the legacy rates' to ensure hours of work in the truck- of privatisation. Both the RMT and ASLEF ing industry was a tale of perseverance and are backing Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Party persistence in the face of political upheaval. which has promised to renationalise rail What was reassuring was the resolve and once it wins the next election. commitment of Australian workers to con- Conference isn't just about workshops Ross Wilson and Laurie Collins. RMTU's fatigue campaign

Some facts RMTU commitment: n Fatigue is a state of physical and or men- n Organise Union events to discuss the tal exhaustion, which reduces a person’s risk of fatigue and educate members on ability to perform work safely. their rights under the Health and Safety n Fatigue negatively affects a person’s re- at Work Act 2015. action time, accuracy, ability to judge risk, n Consider whether provisions in the filter out distractions, and problem solve. collective employment agreements could n Fatigue is caused by work, shift work, be incentivising people to work excessive inadequate breaks and non-work factors overtime that could be contributing to (l) Chuck Atkins and (r) Andrew Norton such as lifestyle and is therefore, a shared fatigue. (KiwiRail). responsibility between the organisation n Negotiate hours of work provisions that and the individual to manage. provide for adequate sleep opportunity n The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and two nights consecutive sleep following requires PCBU’s (employers) to have a the last night shift. safety system for managing the hazard of n Encourage and educate members to fatigue in the workplace. identify the risk of fatigue in themselves n A Worksafe NZ survey found 43% of and others and stop unsafe work when workers said they worked when overtired there is a high likelihood that a person is 'from time to time’ or 'a lot'.# unable to work safely due to fatigue. n Adults need between seven and nine n Educate health and safety reps to raise hours sleep per 24 hours. After 17 hours fatigue issues on behalf of workers and awake a person’s performance is equiva- make recommendations regarding fatigue lent to having a blood alcohol content of management to the employer. Liz Lester (Welfare Trust) and 0.05%. n Include claims for the development of Allan Addison-Saipe. n Fatigue is an unavoidable consequence a fatigue risk management system within of shift work that cannot be eliminated the collective bargaining process. but can be managed to an acceptable and n Negotiate joint worker/management agreed level. fatigue safety action groups for monitoring The Transport Worker December 2018 n Recovery of normal sleep (following and making recommendations relating to night shifts) usually takes at least two the management of fatigue. nights of unrestricted sleep. Single days n Encourage employers to adopt a Just off do not provide adequate recovery time. Fair Culture framework that supports open n A fatigue risk management system, and honest reporting of fatigue without including management and worker com- risk of punitive action. mitment, is required to manage the hazard n Engage with and lobby the regulators of fatigue. NZTA, Maritime NZ and WorkSafe NZ ______to develop guidance material for fatigue management in consultation with the At the 2018 RMTU conference, delegates industry. # Health and Safety Attitudes and Be- endorsed the RMTU’s policy to combat the Michael Naylor receives his gift for risk of workplace fatigue. haviours Survey in the New Zealand Workforce 2016. speaking from Debbie Brown. 16 Conference

and guest speakers though, it's also our union's parliament, where our policies are determined through debate and votes on remits. There was a wide range of remits, covering the whole range of issues that af- fect our union. The union's budget debate was particularly important this year as we've been involved in three major disputes in the past 12 months in Wellington, Auckland and Lyttelton. Disputes are expensive, but due to good management our war chest is full and we're ready to fight again if we need to. We did a review of those campaigns through a panel discussion that involved key delegates. It was great to hear from front-line leaders about the way they had (l to r) Jana Philpott (Port Timaru) presenting gifts to RTBU visitors Andy Holt, Mark organised and involved members to cam- Supple and Peter Mundy. paign, fight and win. One key point was that employers such as Transdev and Toll. sentation in our Union rules. the RMTU kicked off what is growing into a The bosses organise across national The quality of our women representa- wave of industrial action across the private boundaries and so should we. tives is beyond doubt and the huge con- and public sector, and we did it before the Indeed all our international guests tribution they make to the success of the change in government. Workers are grow- had flown directly from the ITF Congress RMTU was rehearsed time and time again – ing in confidence and our example has been in Singapore (including our GS who was especially during our review of the disputes part of creating that impetus. again voted in as the ITF Railway Section in Wellington, Auckland and Lyttelton. Once again we discussed the value of Asia Pacific regional chair at the Congress). We heard from a succession of invited international solidarity and how our affilia- For the second time Conference hosted speakers. tions and relationships to organisations like a women's representatives and a women's If nothing else the very breadth of topics the International Transport Workers Fed- forum. A very clear challenge was laid down covered demonstrates the work our Union eration (ITF) and overseas unions gives us by ASLEF women's representative Deborah does: from the NZ Staff Welfare Trust to strength when dealing with multinational Reay to our women: to codify their repre- having life members and former GS Ross

Our international guests had a few comments about the conference: Mick Cash (RMT): "Brilliant confer- ence, well organised. I learned a great deal and hopefully got to share some experiences that will resonate with your members." Mick Whelan (ASLEF): "Once again the RMTU demonstrates the value of workers standing together on shared platforms with shared visions." Klaus Pinkas (TWU): "A Fabulous conference. I greatly appreciated the chance to talk with RMTU members about our shared struggle. It'll be good to share this experience with our mem- bers in Canberra." Mark Supple (RTBU): "Very grate- ful for the invitation to be part of the RMTU's conference and good to be able to meet your delegates and active The ASLEF delegation enjoying their vote of thanks for participating at the Conference. members." The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport 17

Wilson as chair of the Board of Worksafe. We The challenge for everyone who attended also hosted the secretary of the CTU, KiwiRail's Conference is clear – go back to your branch- general manager of HR, Napier Port's CEO and es, spread the word and organise! the Minister of Justice, Andrew Little. The last speaker was not in a position to announce the (r) RMTU H&S organiser Karen Fletcher. funding of electric locos at Conference as the (below left) Klaus Pinkus (TWU) and decision had not been endorsed by Cabinet (below) Lyttleton branch members thanking at that stage. Never mind Andrew – the an- National Office staff for their support nouncement a week later was worth the wait! during their strike. The Transport Worker December 2018 Women's Forum in Singapore the week before had ports and rail; started a 'Right to Flush' campaign; n Health and wellbeing against fatigue; (Held with London Underground LE and n A policy on menopause was passed at Lisa Davidson, the safety electrical ASLEF Women chair, Debbie Reay.) conference; officer, Palmerston North is the new women's CTU rep; Action points included: Christine Fisiihoi, the previous rep Topics discussed: n Promoting RMTU women; says: "It has been an honour to represent n Harassment and domestic violence at n Post short videos showing what women our Union for the past three years and I home and in the workplace; do at work; am sure Lisa will be a great proactive rep." n Unsanitary conditions with some rail n Mission statement is empowerment; The next CTU Women's Conference is and ports workers saying there is lack n Merchandise group; 11-12 July 2019 at the Renouf Centre in of bathroom facilities; n Fundraising at WIMDOI events; Wellington. n The ITF conference that had been held n Pathways into encouraging women into 18 First-time conference attendees and their thoughts

Allan Addison-Saipe: (Nelson Ports) Brian Watkins: (Lyttelton Port) "Very Campbell Angus: (Port of Napier) Chuck Atkins: (Port of Tauranga) "I've enjoyed being part of something impressed with the passionate and "Enjoyed a professionally organised "Good to hear from other port members, bigger and meeting other members from inspirational speakers! I particularly conference. I liked listening to the inter- and to hear that we share similar other parts of the Union and the wider enjoyed Mick Whelen from ASLEF." national speakers and hearing about the challenges. I'll take knowledge back to international union movement through global struggle that we are part of." work with me." the overseas guests."

Jas Giri: (Auckland Rail) "Good Jed O'Donoghue: (Canterbury Malcolm Ross: (Toll Christchurch) Matt Hamilton: (Waikato Rail): "A opportunity to get to know people Rail) "Absolutely great to see our "Excellent. Lots of information I'll gathering that was full of people in wider union. This is really union is tired of fatigue!" pass on to the delegates. I who have great experience of important for me as a new especially liked the discussion on struggle. Gave me some ideas about assistant branch secretary so I can fatigue lead by Karen." how to set up systems to organise learn how the movement mobilises members in my branch". workers."

Katrina Kalolo: (Wellington Rail) Michael Batt: (Otago Rail) "Good Tangiwai Haney: (Wellington Rail) "I Mel Ryall: (Otago Rail branch): "Good conference. I didn't know what conference. I enjoyed hearing about the enjoyed seeing and hearing from the "Inspirational – especially seeing our to expect and ended up soaking up international dimension of our work. As different unions. The women's forum strong women in many different roles. I information like a sponge. I particularly a health and safety rep I liked the focus made me realise I'm not alone – women also liked hearing from the two

The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport liked Deborah Reay's presentation to the on fatigue." face the same challenges everywhere." Andrews – Norton and Little." womens' forum." First-time conference attendees and their thoughts 19

Chuck Atkins: (Port of Tauranga) Dodi Joseph: (Hutt Shop) "Great to Gareth Bachop: (Dunedin KiwiRail Jana Philpott: (Port of Timaru) "Really "Good to hear from other port members, network with people from around our track ganger) "Loved it. Especially net- and to hear that we share similar enjoyed the conference, especially the country and from overseas. I really liked working with other delegates and listen- international speakers - Mick Whelen challenges. I'll take knowledge back to Klaus Pinkas's speech from the TWU in ing to their experiences. Most enjoyed work with me." from ASLEF in the UK was inspira- Australia and Mick Whelan (ASLEF) was the session on the industrial disputes tional." very passionate." and how they had been run."

Simon Overend: (Port Sam Marsh: (Canterbury Port) Scott Mytton: (Centreport Marlborough shipping security of- Renay Hope: (Port Otago) "I've ficer) "Very, very good. The realised exactly what 'stronger "Really enjoyed myself. Lots of Wellington) "Overall ran to the shared wisdom. I enjoyed the time schedule which was great. international guests were awesome together' means - hearing from and showed us how small we are people all around New international speakers and also The international panel with their Andrew Little's presentation." wide knowledge and what they as a country but how big we are Zealand and from overseas put it together and growing your know- in perspective." had to say about off assets and how this will have an effect on all ledge base by hearing how things of us." have happened in the past." The Transport Worker December 2018

Vaughan Davidson: (Wellington maintenance engineer Hyundai Rotem) Will Te Amo: (Napier KiwiRail) "Deb and Chelsea did a great job. Mel Ryall: (Otago Rail branch): Ron Nijssen: (West Coast) "Outstand- "Really good meeting new members Enjoyed the international speakers hear- "Inspirational – especially seeing our ing conference. Great to have the from around the country. International ing what they were going through and strong women in many different roles. I opportunity to network with the wider speakers were really good. Fatigue the problems that can happen anywhere also liked hearing from the two union. Good to hear the port side of session lead by Karen Fletcher was the in the world with a company like Trans- Andrews – Norton and Little." things as well." most informative and useful thing about dev. Also enjoyed meeting the organis- the three days". ers and senior people in the union." 20 NEWS More Chinese locos reach our shores

Another batch of 15 Chinese manufactured DL-class locomotives arrived in New Zealand in late October to Port of Tauranga . They will be the gen 2.3 class and will be commissioned at Te Rapa. The first one is ex- pected to enter commercial service on December 18.

Day of respect ustralia's Rail, Tram and Bus Workers was established two years ago said most transport workers had experi- Union (RTBU) and the Transport following the tragic death of Brisbane bus enced some form of violence and harass- Workers Union (TWU) called for driver Manmeet Sharma (also known as ment from unruly passengers. aA National Day of Respect for Public Trans- Manmeet Alisher). "We hear far too many stories of verbal port Workers on November 5. Australians "The simple act of saying 'thank you' abuse, harassment and even physical as- were urged to mark the day by saying "thank sends an important message to public saults," Kaine said. "More must be done to you" to transit workers. transport workers," Nanva said. "Everyone make our public transport networks safer RTBU National Secretary Bob Nanva deserves to be safe and respected at work." for both workers and passengers." The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport said the Day of Respect for Public Transport TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine - Labour News 21 TWU conference alcolm Ross and Rudd what they are calling Fair Pay Agreements. Hughes, at the invitation of the Although this has yet to happen. TWU, attended the New South The TWU sees its return as essential for WalesM Delegate's Conference in Sydney the health and safety of truck drivers and this November. Its theme was two of their the current national secretary noted that major campaigns: 'Changing the rules' and since the abolition of Safe Rates, 451 people a return to 'Safe Rates'. The former referred had died in heavy vehicle accidents. The to employment law in Australia and the Liberal Government's minister for roads, way it works to limit the power of workers, Melinda Pavey, stated that electrocuting particularly around the right to strike. The drivers would be a sufficient replacement latter was raised due to the Liberal govern- Malcolm Ross (r) with senator Glen Serle for Safe Rates saying that "technology is ment's abolition of Safe Rates. (above) and with NSW TWU state secre- now so advanced, a driver can be driving As in New Zealand, the restraint on tary Richard Olsen (below) and get an electric shock if they look away the right to strike outside of bargaining from the windscreen for more than two has severely limited the power of workers seconds". Understandably, this response and their unions to maintain wages and has outraged the TWU membership and conditions. Moreover, bargaining on a displays the Liberal's disdain for workers site by site or company by company basis and has galvanized the union around their severely limits the ability of workers to gain campaign. significant wage increases. This is clearly The overall tone of the conference was seen in the widening income gap between as militant as one might expect due to the the wealthy and the rest of society, a gap attacks by the Liberals. But alongside the de- which continues to widen. In her speech to fiance there was also an infectious optimism the conference Sally McManus, the secretary from the rank and file who showed strong of the ACTU, argued strongly for a return to workers. This has implications for New Zea- support for the campaigns and the call by industry wide bargaining that would set fair land. The Labour-led coalition government the union to get Labour to deliver when, rates for all workers in the same industries has policy about introducing industry wide as it looks likely, they return to the govern- and occupations and deliver fairer wages to rates in selected sectors, like the buses, in ment benches after the next election. Supporting workers

An important plank in the RMTU's philosophy is "Stronger together". We give tangible support to our brothers and sisters in other unions on a regular basis. Here we are supporting members of the teachers' union the NZEI and justice workers belonging to the PSA. The Transport Worker December 2018 22 News Excellent MECA outcome

(above) The negotiations team celebrating the achievement of a settlement for our members. (r)Mr Kim (Hyundai N stark contrast to 2017 the Rotem), Allan Ladd RMTU, Transdev Wellington and (Transdev Wellington) Hyundai Rotem reached a fair and Wayne Butson settlementI for the renewal of their (RMTU). MECA this year. Union to the rescue MTU Napier members from the Myanmar community to com- have come to the aid of a municate with him. foreign crewman. Phyo Wai "The poor guy is so lonely," said MoeR from Myanmar was injured the Angus. "It would be good to find some- evening of Wednesday October 31, one who could speak to him in his own after falling from the gangway on the language and provide some comfort." container ship the MOL Destiny while Union members were clearly quite it was preparing to sail. taken with the man's plight and gave "It was a horrible accident," said Moe's agent a 'hurry up' to provide some RMTU delegate Cam Angus, who care. The Union and agent together sup- added that the incident is being in- plied him with clothing and toiletries and vestigated by Worksafe New Zealand the Union branch voted through a dona- and Maritime New Zealand. tion of $200 towards his daily needs. Moe suffered a broken arm and Cam Angus and Roz Muir pictured at the Members have committed to visiting Hawkes Bay Hospital. knee, needed stitches above his right him and helping where they can. eye and suffered concussion. He required around the third week of November, via the Moe has a wife and two daughters in surgery for the knee, at least two weeks shipping agent's expense. Myanmar. He is a member of the Myanmar in hospital and a lengthy recuperation. It Angus and his RMTU colleagues put out National Union within the seafarers sec- The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport is understood that he may be flying home an SOS through FaceBook to find someone tion. Around the branches 23

Board and has appointed here. This consultant chap wrote the East- Greg Miller as new chair. West roading link business case and still NORTHLAND RAIL Quite amusing to hear he believes it stacked up. Anyway they have wants an office in a glass been told if they make a mess of it we will OOD progress with renewal work tower on Stanley St, Auckland - finger on go on the attack and rubbish the report, as in the North with 2000+ 25T the pulse and trigger for any corporate I know our cobber Wayne Brown the chair concrete sleepers discharged and slackers. of the Upper North Island Transportation ready for installation. A good step forward G Scoping drilling has started on the Working Group, will. He doesn’t mince his in the right direction as a pipe opener to designated Marsden Point rail spur. Our words either. The real business case is our the upgrade of the NAL. branch chair Alby Barr has another meeting deep water port hasn’t got a rail line to it There is an amazing amount of work this week with the business case consult- and this ‘wrong is to be righted ‘. The real being completed by a minimal number of members on the front- line. The latest EM80 shows great improve- ments to safety and re- liability, emphasising a reduced number of class 1 and star faults. A sterling effort from the lads, well done. Like most regions we are suffering from the effects of skele- ton crews, an ageing workforce and a lot of work to get on with now that we have a pro-rail government. These pressing issues were raised with La- A steam special from 2017 shows why tourist trains are so popular in the far north. bour minister Andrew Little at the recent RMTU conference. It ants to whom he has been providing future deal is that NZFirst and Labour signed an was good to hear one of his staffers has rail freight business contacts from the Un- agreement to build it as part of the deal to been in touch to confirm that it is on the ion's backing vehicle, Grow Northland Rail. form a coalition government, full stop.” agenda for Cabinet. Barr says: “I am very sceptical of this We wish all our members and families a Also on the political front a few boxes outfit given they keep contacting us appear- great holiday break. Please stay safe on the have been ticked off. True to his word ing not to have a clue who they should be roads especially over the silly Christmas Winston Peters took the axe to the KiwiRail talking with from the business world up season. The Transport Worker December 2018

leith is now under the The settlement of the KiwiRail/RMTU WAIKATO RAIL Te Rapa branch, rather collective agreement this year has been well than under the Kawarau received by the branch, and especially the T has been a very interesting year for branch. improvement in the decision making from this branch with the managerial changes As we all become more involved with the industrial councils. that have taken place. The jury is out as the Just and Fair culture policy a lot of the The Networks members are pretty whetherI the changes will improve KiwiRail heat has been taken out of the discipli- pleased that as a result of the collective or the workplace culture. A positive move nary processes which makes for far better agreement negotiations that the KNIC will has been the increase in new trainee LEs outcomes. However some managers are conduct a pay progression review, look at which, when they are signed off, who very quick to try and label incidents and manning levels and review the flexi worker improve the work life balance for our accidents as "reckless choices". I guess it is clause. members. old habits kicking in! The Toll Networks/RMTU collective As part of the regional restructure Kin- 24 Around the branches

agreement was settled this year and the defer to Toll head office who then do as "been signed off by the union" which it was Toll membership continues to grow in little as possible to not resolve issues, which not. That caused more upheaval over an is- Hamilton due to the hard work put in by the just causes discontent in the workplace. For sue that should been worked through with delegates. We still struggle to resolve mat- example, the members were told that the the delegates and resolved, rather than the ters with Toll, as their managers will always changed drug and alcohol procedure had members being lied to.

The Sulphur Point A major issue of late is protection in the yard roster is still not Mount yard. With the number of contractors BAY OF PLENTY RAIL resolved despite numer- involved with log trains there have been a ous meetings between number of incidents over appropriate rules here was a well attended Just and management and the roster committee. regarding protection. Protection training Fair Culture training in Tauranga The main issue is trying to strike a work/ seems to be ad hoc and we have requested during the year and there has been life balance in the roster. that there should be a common user pro- an improvement in problem solving in the T More and more logs are moving through tocol on training and the use of protection. Bay since then, by delegates and manage- the Bay as log exports from the Port of Tau- KiwiRail have committed to do this with the ment. Our members are now taking more ranga increase, which puts added pressure contractors, which hopefully will improve interest in supporting their workmates on all of our members. This is not helped the safety in the yard. during investigations and disciplinary issues by our low manning levels. than previously.

ally pisses off the mem- resolve the agreement which we hope to BAY OF PLENTY PORT bers. It seems common have achieved before Christmas. with these Australian The Port of Tauranga/RMTU consulta- E are in the third year of the companies as we have the same problem tion on fatigue in the workplace is picking C3/RMTU collective agreement, with Ixom! up steam and we anticipate improved ros- and our members are looking The sooner we get back to Kiwi-owned ters and manning to help combat fatigue. Wforward to solid improvements to the next companies the better. The POTL delegate have been working year's agreement. The cranes allocation agreement is up through a number of issues such as cameras One of the problems with C3 is due to next year, this will affect all our members in cranes, the quarantine agreement, mov- it being Australian owned which means the who operate the shore side cranes. ing of cranes and job descriptions for our decision making process is slow, which re- We are currently in negotiations to members who work the cruise season.

TARANAKI RAIL on time arrival and departures erry Christmas to all, it has of trains. Slow down and take your been a long time between drinks breaks. with a blurb from the Taranaki. Barrie O'Neil, stalwart of the MThis scribe has been dragged out of the Taranaki, has finally decided closet and asked to put pen to paper or enough is enough and has retired finger on the keyboard. after 51 years on the job. Barrie We are in the silly season at the mo- served all his time in signals and ment. The staff are flat out in their endeav- was an absolute wealth of knowl- ours to keep the ship afloat. The Christmas edge. Many people turned up Sid with his trusty TR both icons of Eltham for many season traditionally has been one where from around the country to help years, now gone. silly mistakes are made. Kids are finishing celebrate Barrie's retirement. The school for a few weeks and the weather is guy was certainly held in very high regard The locomotive servicing facility in New getting hotter, sleep can seem like a luxury. by his work mates. Barrie was last heard of Plymouth has been a hive of activity with an All this can lead to pressures which leads heading to Melbourne and about to embark upgrade of the fuel tank, guttering being to mistakes. So keep it real people, your on a cruise. Have a great retirement mate replaced, new fuel lines installed and an The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport life, health and well-being far out ride the you deserve it. up dated sump oil transfer system. This has 25 been an absolute turn around by manage- New Fuel tank waiting ment, as for years they wanted any chance to be located. to pull the whole facility out and have all servicing done by the boys in the big smoke in Palmerston North. Thanks to the guys who took up the fight to help convince the company to have a servicing facility in the Naki, you have indeed done well. With a positive comes a negative. Eltham, a station that has been used for rail operations since 1881, has closed. The points have been bolted so what the future holds here in this location is up the air. Other locations to have their doors closed Sid all the best down in the land of wind tions. Fab you did well mate, now time to or points bolted in and have seen closure turbines. Mate your professional outlook kick back, relax and let someone else carry in the last ten years are Stratford as a depot, coupled with your high standards will make on your legacy. the Stratford-Okahakura Line, the Te Roti you a valued asset. In closing, just a quick note to Tony, branch, and now Eltham. Kevin Lewis (Sid) Many thanks to Jason Fabish for the Les and Ricky, sorry boys didn't manage to the sole charge operator at Eltham has way he carried out his role as KIC delegate catch up for this issue but next time you get elected to take up the role as a rail opera- operations, a tough job with high expecta- the scoop and top billing. tor in the Palmerston North yard. We wish

An upgrade of the Locomotive servicing facility at New Plymouth. Barrie O'Neil at his leaving function. The Transport Worker December 2018

NAPIER RAIL washout, about 30 me- Once again our freight depot is the best tres long, north of Rau- in the country and we are enjoying our new T Napier rail we have got two panga which will delay facilities. However the Networks members new staff members, Denis Puia the opening of the Warioa line for three or will be moving in before Christmas pro- and Jason Fryer. Jason has just four months. vided the issue of where to base the track returnedA from Freight to work in the Napier Rural earthmoving are in the process gangs are resolved. north track gang. of fixing it now. One of the highlights of the year, apart Summer is on and here the heats are The structures team has been busy with from settling of the KiwiRail/RMTU col- going off. BOL in Wellington and safety critical work lective agreement was the opening of the Signals have very busy doing capital on the Wairoa line bridges. Napier to Wairoa line, which raised the work and level crossing upgrades. Now Napier Rail is gearing up to shift members spirits no end. North of Napier there has been a big from Pandora to Ahuriri. Watch the fatigue and stay safe. 26 Around the branches

ing on the message: 'Not of Tauranga's stake in Port of Timaru. This NAPIER PORT for sale'. Media has also at- would have consequences for the HBRC tended meetings and have around not having full control and would S we head toward the season posted the Union's point limit its cash grab off the back of the port. of festivity, we pass on our best of view. To date, we have addressed Grey A complete lease for 50 years, a huge wishes to all our sisters, brothers Power Hastings and Napier and HBRC ses- pay cheque of around $450m and a new andA whanau of the RMT Union. Stay safe sions in Hastings, Napier, Havelock North, wharf to boot. This initially was pennies and considerate if travelling – and at time Flaxmere and Wairoa. We were unable to from heaven for the HBRC, based around of merriment and move into 2019 refreshed get to the Waipukarau meeting however, an the Melbourne port leasing model for 100 and prepared for whatever comes. ex member was present. years with a $9.7billion pay out to the re- Napier Port on the market, the story The public have been sent submission gional government. continues: forms, or can go on line to provide their It is purely through the Union's lobby- The three options to sell the port and preferred option. There are four options ing that option four has been bypassed by the one option to retain ownership solely by the HBRC has put forward from an original the HBRC. the Hawkes Bay Regional Council (HBRC) nine. The ramifications of this type of takeover are now in the hands of the people of Each rate payer to foot the cost addition- were explained at length to the HBRC chair, Hawkes Bay. We are now at the 'submis- ally of around $1000 spread over the next who met with the local branch executive sions' stage of the process with hearings 10 years (this may have a social impact). only on two occasions. beginning in early December. IPO (share offer) up to 49%, which We were able to provide the devastating To date, members have attended several would raise around $180,000,000. Half of outcomes of what happens with the longer meetings under the banner 'Napier Port this ($90m) for the HBRC to keep rates at term leasing. The social implications in and is not for sale' - a slogan they shouted in bay and towards its environmental responsi- outside of the port, H&S, employment, unity at our branch AGM in August. There bilities and the other half to clear the port's commercial competition plus a race to the is plenty of discussion around the sale debt, and provide the ability to borrow at an bottom for workers and employers. We with a wide variety of opinion – like bums, inflated share value for the $140m required spoke about Melbourne's port and the dif- everyone has one. The branch secretary was to build the new wharf. ficulties experienced by unions there. invited to speak on a local radio station pass- Cornerstone investor, similar to the Port It was through these efforts we were

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A.M. Best, one of the oldest and most respected insurance ratings companies, has rated American Income Life as A+ (Superior) for overall Financial Strength (as of 6/15). The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport 27 able to sway the majority of the HBRC via Which brings me to my last point. They too have been central to the position the chair to lead the councillors to prefer Our local MP campaigned at the last we find ourselves in! Admittedly the new option two. election that Napier Port was not for sale. CEO is currently an acting board member Interestingly, the former CEO of Mel- In light of that our Union supported him as a consequence of the previously scribed bourne Port, up until recently, was an NPC locally and the Labour party financially. It resignation. board member. He resigned as there was is testing that he has not responded to our However, if the talk is about transpar- potentially a conflict of interest. call. We requested his old signage but he ency and open communication the ball has This particular board member is also has been non-committal, not responding been dropped, in my view, by the board a senior consultant with a company called to e-mails even as a courtesy. It is a huge who appear to be manipulating a port Flagstaff, which, in essence, brokered the disappointment to the local branch. sale through the engagement of a Flagstaff sale of Melbourne Port. On the front page The other group, throughout the course consultant. What else are they conspiring? of Flagstaff's website is the mantra: "There of this whole debate, that have avoided All the best for the festive season to you will never be a conflict of interest"! themselves from any of the on- site or and yours. Transparency? Me thinks conspiracy! public meetings, is the Napier Port Board. Tiaki e hoa.

little doubt that the this as part of a drive (in part) towards HUTT WORKSHOPS RMTU would launch self-directing teams. Maybe it's the em- a 'response' at the powerment that has been long promised eason's greetings from the Hutt. following NZLP Con- over the years! This year has been another busy ference if the promise wasn't honoured, Armistice Day was acknowledged with one at the Workshops. We average given that the government had been in of- a loyal audience of staff at the laying of a Ssomething like the best part of 200,000 fice for over a year. Incidentally, the RMTU wreath within our memorial garden. It will labour-hours of work per annum. Added to was well represented at the Labour Party be interesting to observe both locally and that are last minute projects that come with Conference in Dunedin. internationally, whether there will be a shift the timeframe of 'we wanted it yesterday'! The RSAS management restructurings of focus towards WWII commemorations We of course will be working right up until continue with no less than three highly now that the WWI armistice centenary has stumps on Friday December 21 when we'll informative updates notified by GM Adam passed. This will not mean that we turn our have a modest and well-earned shut-down Williams at the close-off for these notes. It backs on those who fell, but rather ensure of two weeks. would be fair to say that we'll all be hitting a more inclusive acknowledgement of the The New Year will continue to be busy the ground running in the New Year as horrors of any conflict where so many have with the DL programme due to start in we get to grips with who's who in the zoo made, and continue to make, the supreme March and hopefully an EF programme to depending upon the number of changes sacrifice in the defence of freedom and follow given the government's $34m invest- that result from the restructuring, which democracy. Lest we forget. ment announcement. This was welcome curiously appears to have a seriously The recent arrival of the Gen 2.3 DL as the NZ Labour Party (and their partners strong focus on 'people leadership'. This locomotives has coincided with the ac- NZ First and the Greens) had made it of course, places great pressure on those celerated demise and disposal of a great a pre-election promise and the union in charge, both directly as part of their chunk of our DC locomotive fleet with a movement was going to hold them to it. appointed positions, as well as those who significant number of them being disem- Indeed, at National Conference in October, hold the elected representative roles across bowelled and taken away by one of our guest speaker Andrew Little was left in the business unit. Locally we are seeing scrap metal merchants. These have been The Transport Worker December 2018

DC4029 in its final throes as it succumbs to the gas axes of Macauley Metals. 28 Around the branches

faithful railway workhorses for something be sustained and that of course takes much like 40+ years, especially given that they time and effort and constant upkeep. The were DA rebuilds! Hutt experience proves this. Another zero With the relaxing of the sinking lid harm initiative born out of the Mechanical policy, we've got back into growth mode Consultative Council was the introduction with batches of apprentices and temporary of the mandatory wearing of safety glasses staff being engaged, and a local recruiting and bump caps. It will be interesting to see initiative getting underway to attract trades' how well this beds-in and what problems qualified people. Additional to that, one of arise from this although there are rumours the HPHE sub-committees has been look- abounding that some manager's budgets are ing at remuneration rates and progression influencing the range of choices presented criteria within Pay Scale 4 (mechanical) to the staff! If you are presented with less with a view to providing some comparable that 7-8 choices of style, you should see your levels of remuneration given that the cur- HSAT team member and ask for assistance. rent rules of the game (ie: The Mechanical The drive to instil the HPHE culture Training & Progression Agreement) has a continues. However, we've noticed that we qualifications-based focus which has been are now a form of poster child for it and we found to be somewhat of a handbrake to re- continue to receive visitations from senior cruiting and retaining talent. Presentations SOE managers and union representatives, and recommendations have been made to and others, from all over the country! Of senior management so we hope to have course we are eagerly awaiting to see how some good news in the New Year. the new board members and CEO relate We just received the initial results of the to the culture change and their perceived zero harm survey: A 58% response rate. That direction that we should follow. seems to indicate we've a way to go in lifting 2019 will bring more challenges, con- our game and pressing on with becoming solidation and growth so I hope everyone NZ's leading H&S company. The statistics has a good break and a safe and merry in some areas are very promising however, Christmas. Cheerio for now. Armastice Day wreath at Hutt Workshops. we are striving to attain something that can

lent discussions were had We have got our H&S committee run- with some of our Australian ning although we still seem to be ham NELSON PORT brothers and some excellent strung by the how importance of worker participation is valued. It is clear in HSWA HE final part of this year was marked information exchanged. For 2015 that this is in integral part of a H&S by delegates attending an excellent example, in Australia there is legislation system. Remembering that this was a major Biennial Conference and meeting around fatigue and hours of work that change to the act after Pike River, a place Twith delegates from around the country limits its effect, unlike our preference in where the workers voice was not heard. It and the world. A positive experience and an NZ for "guidelines" which achieve little. The has always been our wish that worker par- excellent celebration of our successes over adoption of Karen Fletcher's draft policy ticipation should be of value and quality, we recent times. It is important to remember on fatigue risk management, as a national feel that we can bring our experience and that we are part of something bigger and policy, was a major step forward. skill to bear in such a way as to enhance our that we have the support and backing of In Nelson we strive for the implementa- workplaces and to protect our employer. over 4,000 members. Also, the connection tion of some rules around fatigue manage- This surely must be a win win situation. to the ITF is massive. The knowledge that ment, namely a mandatory 10 hour break It's hard to believe it is so hard to get over we are not the only ones fighting disrepu- between shifts and that people identified as the line. table employers like Transdev but that the being at risk of fatigue be given recupera- A big thanks to John Kerr for coming fight is co-ordinated worldwide through the tion leave at no penalty. This, coupled with up and providing a training session for ITF. It is great to know that this French, state a non-punitive reporting system, seems our delegates and area reps. John does an owned, multinational faces a worldwide critical to making the whole programme excellent job in these sessions which are movement. work. really inspiring and motivating. I know that The theme of Fighting Fatigue was The Port has seen a somewhat quieter all our people have got a lot out of it and resonant with activity in many branches, as second half of the year, with the removal this helps us all to remain motivated and many of us have been working on fatigue of two shipping services and yet it doesn't on the same page. risk management systems. Some excel- seem all that quiet with more wine business The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport and strong cargo volumes in logs. It is worth mentioning that Port Nelson 29 also provide a lot of support for what we do. They provide the training room for our use and often provide catering support. They also provided alternative venue for our last meeting of the year and transport to and from the venue. The good relationships we maintain with our employer is integral to improving our wages and conditions. Thank you to Martyn, Shelley, Matt and the team for supporting our efforts to make Port Nelson a great place to work. This year, for the first time in a long time, we have managed to hold all our meetings, maintain our momentum and increase our membership. We have supported several members Nelson Port Branch Execs visit members at Quay Connect Depot in Blenheim. through the disciplinary process and have (l to r) Nyge Rimmer, Tracey Widdon, Geoff Armstrong, Ann Wells-O'Donoghue negotiated strongly for better conditions for and Allan Addison-Saipe. all. We have maintained regular meetings of negotiations. While labour allocations other branches in their disputes and created with management which have enabled us have been an issue for over ten years, we excellent alliances. We have a strong col- to bring issues to them as they occur. It have seen more changes in this last year lective that will only get stronger through is difficult to quantify the effects, but we than ever. Hopefully, as it rolls out, it will UNION. have not been quiet and these issues have make life easier for both labour allocators Finally, next year we renegotiate our been heard. and stevedores. collective agreement. We once again hope We see Voyager coming into operation We have successfully negotiated a strike for a positive outcome that will continue late this year. While it seems a long time ago by another union without any adverse af- to grow our wages and better our condi- this is as a direct result of our last round fects to our members. We have supported tions.

tremely sad as these four folk have been MARLBOROUGH PORT & RAIL with us since the Terminal was built, more or less, and together they exceed T has been a very busy time here in Hugh (Bill) Langdon going next month. To well over 130 years' experience. Jeff, Joe Picton. Interislander Terminal services all of us here at Interislander Picton it is ex- manager Alistair Savage left us to further hisI health and safety career in Blenheim. Word on the street is he has become opera- tions manager for some engineering firm where he may be able to use his health and safety diploma. Instead we have welcomed Bryan Hildyard into his new role leaving The Transport Worker December 2018 behind his position of turn around manager and going to the dark side. This was particu- larly welcomed by all the RMTU delegates as he already knew the collective and we didn't have to train a newbie - phew!. Bryan, who now sits in our head chair in Picton, brings a ton of knowledge. He has been here for as long as the plastic chairs in the Terminal and it has been a breath of fresh air to welcome someone that knows exactly how we all tick and all our quirks. (l to r) Jeff Bowdler, Joe Huntley, Lynne Bennett, Grant Herbert, (chair Marlborough On the subject of staff members leaving branch). (front row) Tania Haraki, (vice chair Marlborough branch). we also had three retirees: Jeff Bowdler, Al- lan (Joe) Huntley and Lynne Bennett with 30 Around the branches

and Lynne were farewelled on November 8 chairing good meet- with very emotional speeches and stories of ings and throwing in old together with a heartfelt haka from our the odd barbecue. local Queen Charlotte College all followed CT site in Spring by morning tea. Creek, KiwiRail With Xmas rapidly approaching and Freight Picton and In- it being the Interislanders busy (albeit terislander have their silly) season we are now introducing new reps brain storming summer staff. Bring on the bone breaking to come up with so- heavy luggage that our customers seem to lutions for all areas. have nowadays. However Bryan is finding Great effort. Team shot of Jeff, Joe and Lynne's gang. it extremely difficult to find young ones Picton KiwiRail is is for all the workers who helped to get that want to heave the huge bags that come gearing up for our Coastal Pacific special the Main North Line open and VIP guests. across our luggage belts. I'm sure though train leaving on November 23 prior to There will be a special lunch function and that once we are all in the swing of things opening up to passengers on December speeches when the train reaches Kaikoura it will run like clockwork and our custom- 1 - first since the 2016 earthquake. On the with about 180 guests leaving from Picton/ ers will get fabulous service from all our agenda is a karakia from Te Atiawa and Blenheim then travelling back by bus from members here in Picton. Note to Wayne Ngati Kuia and a performance from stu- Kaikoura whilst the train continues on to and Todd we'll have these new members dents at Queen Charlotte College followed Christchurch. signed up asap. LOL by a breakfast cooked by Dean Overend and That's about all we have from Picton. Our joint health and safety committee his helpers Dale Cronin and Rod Thomas Stay safe everyone and have a wonderful is ticking along well with Sean Kroukamp – many hands make light work. This train Xmas.

WEST COAST RAIL our South Island rail been on a downwards spiral for a number representative on NMC of years, and it is sad to be working these hings on the Coast have been and on KIC. Mike was a totally non-user friendly, fatigue inducing a bit hectic (to say the least) in champion of health and safety and was very rosters. It never used to be this way and the aftermath of Paul Thomson's active in at least one project very dear to hopefully once the working parties get all Taccident and NZTA's subsequent ban on the heart of our LEs – the introduction of the issues and changes agreed to, change hi-rail vehicle use, amended after a day to CABA in the Otira Tunnel. Well done Mike will be rolled out across the network. The only apply to the use of hi-rail diggers and and enjoy your retirement. sooner the better we say - the boss might hi-rail hiab trucks which stayed in force for Thanks to National Office for all the hard find some members might be interested a couple of weeks. work that went into great biennial confer- in helping out a bit more when things go A good thing to come out of this was ence. Our conference delegate Ron Nijssen pear shaped. the company set up a working group con- thoroughly enjoyed himself and appreciated The RMTU needs a pat on the back for sisting of South Island wide leading hands the opportunity to build relationships with conducting a good campaign around the and gangers and H&S representatives who the wider delegate and membership body. electric locos. Thankfully the government spent three days reviewing, discussing and Ron brought back lots of information on has made the right call and they will stay coming up with new task instructions for what’s going on and he said there was a lot and be overhauled to continue. This mode working with diggers and hiabs etc. A big of time spent on fatigue and where we are of transport is the future and its a good thanks to John Bannerman and Brian McAl- on this matter. job we have the government we have now lister for getting this organised - it was good Changes to rostering cannot come fast otherwise they would have consigned to the for us at the coalface to get a say in setting enough for some of us that are working scrap heap. A good result. up protocols for working round machines. shifts that can only be described as diaboli- Perhaps, once things settle and the Just as it should be. cal. There has to be some change, like doing North Island gets its 15 new DLs, they could Paul is doing remarkably well. At the away with single RDOs on working until 6 send some horse power down here? The time of writing it is only two months since 30 in the morning on night shift going into coal fleet DXCs are getting a hammering, his accident and he is being fitted with a a single day off! We also have a roster with with the old girls having traction motor prosthetic and itching to get back to work. Sunday off, then 0030 start on Monday flashovers and a number suffering cooling He and Tania and family send all their then two more days off. Try and have a life problems, and general old age related is- thanks and aroha to everyone who helped around that. sues, but they are a good work horse and and supported them through their ordeal. As any member that has been around once they are overhauled again will con- for a long time will testify rostering has tinue to give good service. Come to think The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport Also a vote of thanks to Mike Williams, 31 of it, that describes some of our members! Some of the river systems recorded their Jones to get some money out of the Regional As usual the weather is throwing all biggest flows in 50 years so KiwiRail was Development Fund to boost tourist trains sorts of challenges at us as we go into our lucky to escape without more damage, as a over here. busiest season. quick look up country confirms the water Rumour is Kevin Gubb has volunteered We had a good storm which stopped level did indeed get very high. We are used to take politicians on safari in the Buller trains with a washout and other weather to this and we're nothing if not resourceful Gorge! related issues, but as usual network ser- on the Coast. Hooroo from the coast and wishing vices members were on the job quickly and We have another challenge now too – you all a great Christmas and a rocking worked hard to restore all affected services. picking up the glove thrown down by Shane 2019.

CANTERBURY RAIL

big vote of thanks to Mike mass meeting in December. Mike Williams, outgoing KIC has been a tireless advocate for and NMC South Island health and safety, and has been RailA representative, for all his hard involved in innumerable projects work up to his medical retirement that our members are benefitting in October. A little bird tells this from. He has set a great example scribe that Mike is still active and to whoever wins the election for will attend the last NMC of the year the position he occupied on NMC. as well as our now traditional joint We are privileged as a union that Alex Carne and Brian Cosgrove at Middleton on Alex's Canterbury Rail and Port branch we have such a high calibre field second day on the job. Sickness, accident and death The New Zealand Locomotive Engineers’ Sickness, Accident and Death Benefit Fund In the last 10 years 230 locomotive engineers had to retire due to medical reasons. They received a total payout of $4,737,097 from the above Fund. LEs who didn’t belong to the Fund and who were forced to retire did not receive anything. The Transport Worker December 2018 You could be next to miss out! For as little as $219 a year your future – or those of your next of kin – could be better assured. Contact: Attention LEs Debby Green, PO Box 813, Wellington Join this Fund now for Telephone: (04) 499–2066 Fax: (04) 471–0896 your own peace of mind [email protected] 32 Around the branches

running for office including two candi- dates from this branch. Thanks for all your work Mike – you've set a high standard to aspire to. Over in Networks we started to think it was all quiet but up popped a manager who didn't appear to know who the RMTU is or that it helps if you consult with us if you what things to tick along. There were a few rumblings but to this boss's credit he flew down and met with the members and demonstrated that a little bit of time spent listening really can save heaps in the long run. We're impressed by the way, that this manager fronted up and despite a bad start he seems to have got things back on track (pun intended). Bobby Boulton and Lisa Stickley at Middleton mechanical on their 1st day on job. We've had a plethora of medical re- Malcolm has been doing some excel- The PTUA have been a very powerful tirements to date – a sign of the ageing lent work on behalf of members and got to force advocating for rail in Auckland and demographic of our workforce. It's good attend the Transport Workers Union New our members are keen that it becomes that delegates in mechanical and networks South Wales branch conference in Sydney. equally effective here. are involved in an HPHE project to identify We're sure he will have learned heaps and As we approach our busiest time of year and develop people to work in different will bring the benefits of his knowledge to mother nature seems to throw her usual roles on the railways. Welcome to new bear in his delegate work. challenges in our direction. Heavy rain members in mechanical and also down at Some of us attended a public meeting in and high winds closed the Midland Line the CT site. You've joined a family. We can October to launch the Christchurch branch temporarily in November, and of course be pretty dysfunctional sometimes but all of the Public Transport Users' Association's the track gangs are flat out dealing with the the best families are. (PTUA) campaign for commuter rail in our heats. Good to welcome the Coastal Pacific Over at Toll Malcolm Ross has been fill- city. Small beginnings but they have a very service back though and our Prime Minister ing the shoes of Tony Dreaver who stood determined and active committee and there on the grand opening run in late November. down as a delegate after giving sterling is definitely public support for what is being Stay safe and season's greetings to all. service to our union for many years. proposed.

LYTTELTON PORT another, with sanctions if staff are unhappy they aren't productive. ranging from letters of We see the World Bank has published T the time of writing one of our expectation to two cases one of its periodic surveys and has con- delegates has been suspended of termination. When you compare this to cluded New Zealand is the easiest place in the container terminal. He the other 120 plus members of this branch in the world to do business. Given that wasA representing another member who where only seven have been subjected to our port is a regional monopoly through had been the subject of an investigation disciplinary investigations, one of which a happy accident of geography one would into his performance. We cannot go into led to termination of employment, then be forgiven for thinking running this place detail at this time, but needless to say the we can clearly see that there is a problem should be easy. The competence of a RMTU will do everything in its power to in Lyttelton's container terminal. There management team and board which has fight for what is clearly an attack on one appears to be no attempt to address the successfully alienated its staff so much, that of our elected representatives. The RMTU underlying systemic issues. Management productivity has declined to the point that is demanding the delegate's immediate insists on targeting individual workers in at least one shipping line is considering reinstatement. This comes after months an attempt to enforce compliance to its going elsewhere, has to be questioned. of disciplinary investigations by terminal vision through coercion and intimidation. The way forward is to change the terms management into all manner of things. In This campaign of persecution has had of engagement between union and man- the last 12 months up to one third of our a negative effect on morale and now man- agement and to this end there has been 90 members at the terminal have been sub- agement are expressing concerns about a positive development. After months of jected to an investigation of some kind or reduced productivity. It's not hard to see behind-the-scenes talks at the highest level The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport why productivity is down. It's axiomatic that between LPC and RMTU, a High Perfor- 33 mance High Engagement (HPHE) project ficers CEA where a lot of time and effort has but the automatic non-punitive reporting has been agreed to be undertaken with LPC been put into agreeing to a roster change process is not yet in place and a systematic workshop staff. This fulfils one of the key acceptable to both parties. We are now at a education process of all staff, both workers terms of settlement which ended our recent similar juncture where we were late last year and managers, has yet to commence. We industrial dispute. With the largely positive when negotiations broke down; it is simply suspect the reticence of LPC to implement experience that RMTU has had with this pro- a matter of LPC wanting to give sufficient the standard is that they realise they are cess at KiwiRail, we are hopeful that this can value to our members for that change in very exposed on the issue of fatigue and lead to a long term and lasting change in the the salary package. We can only hope that are unsure how to engage with the unions way the employer and union do business at lessons have been learned and with any luck to discuss the necessary changes to work Lyttelton – and most importantly, for our by the time you are reading this we will have practices and rosters enshrined in the CEAs. members, give them an effective framework concluded this round of bargaining. There may well be a case for another HPHE for constructive engagement. Fatigue management remains the project here. Continuing on a positive note, bargain- elephant in the room at LPC and despite On a final note, this is a busy time of year ing for the LPC City Depot CEA concluded the good work done by LPC health and for our members and many will be required in record time and the pragmatic and sen- safety staff and RMTU, and the excellent to work over the so-called holiday period. sible approach of management there was a workshops run by experts Phillipa Gander For those of you lucky to have time off, make refreshing change to what we experienced and Drew Dawson, the draft Fatigue Man- the most of it and come back rejuvenated during the negotiations for the main Port agement Standard has yet to be formally in the New Year. For those of you who CEA that broke down into open dispute. adopted. Aspects of the new approach to have to work, take care of each other and Bargaining continues for the logistics of- fatigue management are already starting, stay safe.

matters will have im- We read of weather events closing lines TIMARU RAIL proved. elsewhere in the country. Here in Timaru we In the last Trans- are basking in sunshine – take note all you T is with sadness that we say goodbye to port Worker comments regarding Toll and Auckland LEs sick of working for Transdev. a couple of our branch members: many previous contracts regarding the housing of Down here one of our challenges is to be thanks to operations team leader Ian our shunting operations' staff upset some mindful of sun and heat in relation to pro- RutherfordI and Networks signalman Liam of our Toll members. Our branch chair tecting skin and staying hydrated. It's tough Gorman for their membership of the RMTU and years of work on the railway. We wish both gentlemen the very best in the future. We are happy that the government has decided to rebuild the electric locomotives from the North Island. This will give our brothers and sisters in our workshops major work for the foreseeable future – a decision that would not have been taken by the previ- ous government. Well done the RMTU on a successful campaign. Closer to home, more work is being done in our yard. Our gangers are doing a great job in replacing and repairing tracks The Transport Worker December 2018 and so forth. Terminal staff are grateful for your efforts guys. Our shunt locos are often breaking down and at one stage we About to retire, long serving member Ian Rutherford shared a joke with had three DSCs in the depot with only South Island organiser John Kerr. one operating properly. The Christchurch fronted up and apologised. Thank you to work but someone has to do it. maintenance crew do an amazing job keep- the members who made their feeling heard Things are slowly ramping up for the ing them operating. Many thanks to the and thanks to Doug for talking the issue summer season with tonnage building up mechanical team. through. and holidays and Christmas on the horizon. Talks are continuing with Primeport Doug attended National Conference and Christmas rosters are in the planning and over track conditions to the port with joints came back with some excellent information, the call is out for leave applications. and track often covered by water and joints particularly on fatigue. It's good to see the All the best for a great festive season and in poor condition – we are hopeful that by RMTU is organising around this. a great 2019. the next edition of the Transport Worker 34 Around the branches

on fatigue with Qual- faster if it risks being unsafe. We know that's TIMARU PORT ity Marshalling and are one of the ways people end up getting hurt. going to broaden this We now have an RMTU policy in QM irst, a big thank you to the wider to include the Prime Port members in De- that if we self-report fatigue there will be no union, our international guests, cember as our national health and safety immediate negative consequence. This isn't national office staff and all who at- organiser Karen Fletcher is visiting to do a licence to be irresponsible – questions Ftended the RMTU Biennial Conference. Our some training on fatigue management. will still be asked of the manager respon- delegates Naylor Young and Jana Philpott The theme of Conference was therefore of sible for hours of work and of the worker ably represented Timaru; Jana was a first particular relevance to us and it's good to responsible for his or her wellbeing - but time attendee and says she got a great deal know the whole of our Union is united in it's a very positive step. Well done to our out of the experience, particularly hearing fighting fatigue. negotiating team and to QM for taking the from the international guests. Naylor is Our port is getting busier as we ap- initiative. If we can do it in Timaru, surely a Conference veteran and took a day of proach peak import/export season and so it can be done in other ports? disrupted travel in his stride before being we are all keen to ensure that we put into Best wishes to all for Christmas and the on a panel discussion during the ports' practice what we've learned about fatigue to New Year and stay safe and fight fatigue! workshop half an hour after arriving. stay safe. Remember – don't take shortcuts Our branch has been doing a lot of work or try to offset short staffing by working

positive to come from train plan. All in all we have plenty of work. the consultation has As far as facilities go, a good refurbish- OTAGO RAIL been highlighting the ment project has been completed with big thank you from Otago Rail lack of cover in the the toilets and washroom receiving a well- branch to Mike Williams, our KiwiRail LE roster and the dire shortage of deserved upgrade, along with offices and outgoing NMC South Island Rail locomotives in the south. The restructured visitor kiosks receiving the same treatment. management team is now very supportive Our traverser, a key piece of equip- andA KIC (LE) rep. Mike’s efforts and deter- mination as an advocate have secured good and recognises the urgency of increasing ment was given a new lease of life with the results for many members and improve- the roster numbers. So, if you're an LE work- old overhead wiring power supply being ments to our workplace, especially relating ing for Transdev in Auckland or Wellington replaced by a new diesel generator with an to health and safety. Enjoy a well-deserved why aren't you thinking about coming to electronic drive system. This, together with retirement Mike, you have set the scene for live and work in our lovely city? the refurbishment of the old mechanical more improvements to come. Our mechanical members have been drive system, shafts and bearings and lastly Another retirement sees long time hard at work. Wagon work at Hillside and a coat of paint, will see this serving Hillside member Bruce Weir, Balclutha RCO, finish in the Dunedin depot continues at a steady well into the future. And thanks to the deci- on Nov 3. Bruce has been with KiwiRail pace with some good gains into the back log sion to fund the refurbishment of the EF and its predecessors for 45 years and of bad orders on the South Island RSAS fleet fleet by the current government we expect worked all around the south, including as of CFTs and heavies. that we'll be picking up a fair bit of work a guard in Oamaru, on the stone trains out Coal wagons have once again come that would otherwise have been done at the of Dunback, and stints in Edendale and into focus with the final stages of the crack Hutt Shops. Maybe Labour will honour its Ashburton. Congratulations on a long and repair project planning being completed. election pledge to fully re-open Hillside? varied career Bruce, and warm wishes for So far a new maintenance platform has We know that the use of bump hats and a happy retirement and not having to work been completed, welding procedures have safety glasses has generated some debate in the wee small hours. been updated to the standard and training across the country. It was reviewed by the We recently had an issue with outsourc- of welders is under way. The updating of Dunedin and Hillside RSAS teams as we ing of work trains out of Dunedin, where the repair and maintenance procedures are have used the bump hats for quite some KiwiRail failed to consult with RMTU as is almost complete so we should be underway time along with the safety glasses so there required in our MECA. After being raised soon. was little problem with the policy here. As with management by our general secretary Hillside is busy with loco work, the a further benefit we have adopted the use and the branch, the work was halted until DC team has completed the last of the cab of climbing helmets for use with 100 tonne all related issues were consulted on and vibration checks plus repair and upgrade crane driving and Dogman duties. addressed. The programme of work is now until after the peak season is over so the Network services have been busy as being carried out by RMTU members. The remaining DCs can be released to follow always. A big thank you to our branch chair branch was clear throughout that there be the same process. Murray George, who has been a source of no animosity between different sectors of Mainline loco work continues as and good advice and support for many of our when required and can be released from members these past few months. Murray

The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport the branch, and also it was in members’ interests that the work be completed. One service due to tight constraints with the new gives selflessly of his time and is a source 35 of calm and reasoned wisdom when people Over at Dunedin Railways Julian Evans, and Pat Tutty attending the Labour Party are under pressure. Thanks brother, it's Andy Howie and Mel Ryall have assumed the Conference and our branch secretary hav- greatly appreciated. mantle of leadership from the indefatigable ing dinner with the Cuban ambassador all Well done to Gareth Bachop who is Lyall Kelpe. Big shoes to fill but going by on the same weekend. stepping up and taking an active role as a the great work they've all done to date our The RMTU is indeed a broad church. delegate. Now we'll see if KiwiRail do what members are very lucky. Wishing us a collective bargaining posi- they seem to do with some of our best Finally, it was great to see our delegates tive 2019. delegates and promote either of these lads. getting politically active with Mel, Rebecca

the DC fleet were all We'll leave it to his Christchurch broth- SOUTHLAND RAIL inspected, repaired, ers and sisters to detail the many other de-rattled and given a projects he was involved with: including the E would like to first of all certificate of compli- CABA gas equipment in the Otira tunnel; acknowledge the recent medi- ance to certify their safety and performance. the reinstatement of the MNL after the Kai- cally retired Mike Williams, These improvements ensured that if koura earthquake; the ROM review; fatigue WSouth Island KIC and NMC rep. Mike's any LE was involved in a heavy collision, it management; and Whole Body Vibration. influence has been really appreciated and would have been survivable; such was the Quite a legacy, which many of us will enjoy will be missed. condition of some of the fleet this would the benefits of for many years to come. Mike was instrumental in the DC reme- not have been the case before. Enjoy the retirement Mike, it's well earned. diation project and was a voice of reason We all appreciate the recent $1.63/hr We welcome Stacy Chandler to the deep amongst a cacophony of voices, which at wage rise that we currently enjoy which was south – an LE from Auckland. KiwiRail is times were very loud and robust from both inspired by the negotiation team that Mike short of LEs in Southland and Otago but we sides of the divide. Because of his efforts was a part of. Thanks for that team. warn those of you thinking of leaving Trans- dev or KiwiRail in the big city that Stacy says this was the worst move he's ever made: the weather's appalling, the house prices are terrible, the traffic congestion insufferable, the various public sports amenities includ- ing the sports stadium and velodrome, are so exclusive that no one can access them, and as for the locals. . . Poor Stacey. We have two new rail operators joining the yard-based team: Wiremu Thomson Jackson and Raera Tuau Templeton. Wel- come aboard and we hope you have a long and successful career in rail and are part of the RMTU family for many years to come. Also Mike Ladbrook has joined the CT site following the resignation of 'Goober' who has assumed a bright future and career in Queenstown. Welcome to you Mike!

The LEs are enjoying the benefits of a The Transport Worker December 2018 revised master train plan. It's been a long time now that they have been quiet and not complaining! Must be a good roster. Again we have witnessed another inci- dent in which, had the 10 second rule been observed, we would not have staff under investigation. We're doing our best for our members but it's a reminder that we all need to keep safe and focused as we enter this very busy time of year. Wishing our brothers and sisters throughout New Zealand a great Christmas and New Year! 36

Mongolian magic

T was an honour and a pleasure to have have changed due to automation. Two hun- had the opportunity to attend the In- dred people in Mongolia will lose their jobs ternational Centre of Labour Solidarity due to automation and people in Taiwan (ICLS)I conference in Mongolia. are being let go because there's no work for Although my Wellington counterpart, them. One of the biggest questions today Campbell Leggett, and I flew out separately, is: What is the solution to our jobs being we were on the same flight from Beijing to replaced by machines? Although we spoke in- Mongolia and finally met up in Mongolia. depth on this subject, most countries related Our first day started with an excur- to automation but solutions never came. remarkable in our country? Women can take sion, where we saw lots of barren land, The wage gap and fair pay between the up to three years in maternity leave, although yurts (Mongolian round tents), wondrous sexes is quite a major issue in some coun- they will only get paid for one year but their sights of the statue of Chinggis Khan (aka tries. The minimum wage in the Philippines job will still be there for them when they Genghis Khan), beautiful eagles, traditional is $5 per day for women and $10 per day for choose to return. Mongolian wrestling, a horse race, a tradi- men doing the same job. In Indonesia males dominate the work- tional dance, privileged to hear their national That's a 50% difference. In Mongolia force with women comprising only 2.6%, anthem and suppled with fermented yak women get 18.6% less than men. The wage men are 97.4% while 44% are under 30. milk and some mouth watering foods. We gap isn't just about the difference between Overall the conference was an eye open- even managed to get in a great hill walk to men and women but it's also about how er. Many things were learnt and experienced. a beautiful monastery, then back to the yurt much we're getting paid. In Thailand most Companies are more about profit rather farm for dinner and Mongolian vodka. It people only get paid $US1.25 a day. Rich than people's safety, Campbell stepped into was a great day. people in Thailand pay 20% taxes per year Wayne's shoes comfortably and a wonderful The conference was opened by a beauti- while big companies only pay 1.8% in taxes. time was had by us both. ful song from a local school and then the I must say we could learn so much I left once the conference was over and usual welcome speeches. I was very thankful from Mongolian women in the work place. Campbell stayed to the life as a nomad in for free WIFI and Google translate – a god- Mongolia sees women as equals because in Mongolia for another week. send in breaking down the language barrier. a male dominated work force there are 50% Thank you. Out of 11 countries attending the men and women. Now wouldn't that look Pare-Ana Bysterveld. conference, I found we had many things in common. We all want fairness from our employers, equality, and safe work places. This is why we've come together to exchange knowledge and to protect workers' rights. Like most countries people are being replaced by machines. Japan, Korea and Tai- wan were the main countries which spoke on this subject but a majority of all members of Pare-Ana Bysterveld and Campbell Leggett (RMTU) and Shane Kummerfield The Transport Worker December 2018 Worker The Transport ICLS have experienced how their workplaces and Imogen Odii (RTBU)