Last night a Christchurch family suffered a devastating fire where one child has reportedly perished and left other members of the whānau in serious condition.

The NZPFU National Committee has decided to call off the nationwide one-hour strike (which was scheduled from 12 noon today) in recognition of the impact of the fire on the whānau, their wider support network and in recognition the loss and devastation will be widely felt by Christchurch and ripple through the country.

We acknowledge the efforts of all those that responded including the 111 emergency dispatchers and the firefighting crews with work continuing today with fire investigation members and the impact this incident will have had on them all.   We stand in solidarity with you and calling off the strike is just one way we can demonstrate that support.

The NZPFU will continue with the usual Local debrief by video conference at 3pm to detail more fully the circumstances and to discuss other pressing matters including Locals being called to appear before the Parliamentary Governance and Administration Committee to give evidence in the inquiry into FENZ’s fleet and other matters.

In unity,
Wattie Watson
National Secretary