We’re again in a position where we have to navigate a challenging and extended period of collective bargaining with Fire and Emergency. In times like these, our unity and collective strength as union members is critical. It’s a good moment to reflect, and reinforce why solidarity matters, and why it’s so essential we stick together.

We understand that the workplace for our members is stressful and often the ability to perform at optimum level is significantly impeded by FENZ’s failure to properly resource.  In such unhappy workplaces where staff feel undervalued and disrespected issues can escalate and often results in staff taking issue with their colleagues rather than with the mis-management of FENZ resources which are failing them and at the heart of the issues.

The NZPFU currently has disputes filed in the Employment Relations Authority regarding the new Code of Conduct and the complaints processes. 

The NZPFU has repeatedly raised concerns with FENZ’s lack of clear and fair processes for dealing with workplace conflict.  The most recent transition to Speaksafe through external company Fairway has sadly not addressed the issues.  FENZ has been intent on developing a complaint culture including encouraging complaints from those that were not even involved in the alleged issue.

It is the NZPFU’s experience that the lack of procedurally sound and fair processes means that complaints lodge go through a lengthy process, involving many even if they are no directly involved, impinging on our member’s rights to confidentiality, and resulting in our members being unwillingly pitted against one another. No one wins – many are damaged or harmed through the process.

Our greatest power as a union comes directly from our collective strength. It's crucial we protect that, especially now.

Let’s keep our interactions respectful, constructive, and focused on collective outcomes rather than personalities. When conflicts arise, we must tackle them openly, fairly, and where relevant within the NZPFU.

Never empower FENZ to divide us.

I’d like to offer this whakataukī as a timely reminder of our shared strength and unity:

"Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa." - Let us keep close together, not wide apart.

This whakataukī reminds us that our true strength lies in standing closely together, shoulder to shoulder, especially when challenged.

Let’s stay strong, unified, and look after one another.

Kia kaha rā tātou katoa.

Nā,
Joseph Stanley
Tumuaki ā-Motu | National President