Bargaining recommenced yesterday and today with four more bargaining days previously agreed in September and October.

But this afternoon FENZ collapsed the talks and walked away.

The NZPFU was hopeful we were making progress today on health and wellbeing issues but upon the NZPFU responding to an offer and putting a counter offer up to settle all health and wellbeing claims FENZ declared that bargaining had “run its course” and they would no longer be participating.  FENZ instead want to attend mediation.  In addition, last bargaining FENZ said they did not want to end in facilitation yet today’s actions and comments indicate that is exactly what they are wanting to do.

It is the Union’s strong view that we were only starting to make progress and for the first time were having fruitful discussions on the topics being discussed.

The NZPFU was prepared for 4 more days of bargaining and were hopeful that the progress would be made to deal with most, if not all, outstanding matters during those days.

FENZ has demonstrated it has no intention of a settlement and is forcing our members to continue with all planned strike action.

FENZ has failed to provide information including requested financial information and the correspondence with the Public Service Commissioner and other key players including the Minister. We had requested that information under OIA and again under good faith bargaining provisions yet FENZ still refuses to provide it.

FENZ’s behaviour is a clear indication to the NZPFU that they have never intended to reach a reasonable settlement with the NZPFU. FENZ is forcing our members to continue with all planned strike action.

The NZPFU will hold meetings with Locals over the next few days to prepare for the pending industrial action.

In unity,
NZPFU National Committee