PSA members at ACC will picket in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin as part of strike action to take place tomorrow.
It will be the second strike in as many months at ACC, as members continue to oppose what they say is an unacceptable pay offer.
“Since the last strike in July, ACC has failed to make a pay offer that values their workers and helps them keep up with the cost of living. Many are still earning less than the living wage,” said PSA National Secretary, Fleur Fitzsimons.
A recent survey of PSA members at ACC found that the cost of living over the last six months has had a significant impact on almost all respondents. More than half (58%) say they have been looking for other jobs outside of ACC with better pay.
Over 90% have had to reduce spending on non-essential items; 78% have found it harder to afford basic necessities such as food, housing and utilities; and 80% feel less financially secure than six months ago. Thirty-seven percent have had to seek additional income including by taking a second job or borrowing, and 3% (14 people) have had to rely on foodbanks, the survey found.
“Everybody deserves to be paid fairly for their work and have enough to care for themselves and their whānau. With this strike, our members are showing ACC they won’t stand for being paid less than what they need to live with dignity,” said Ms Fitzsimons.
Picket times and locations are as follows:
– Auckland – Manukau: 11:15-11:45am, corner of Cavendish Drive and Plunket Avenue.
– Auckland – New Market: 11.15-11.45am, outside ACC office, 73 Remuera Road .
– Wellington: 11.15-11.45am, outside Shamrock House, 81/83 Molesworth Street, Thorndon.
– Christchurch: 11.10-11.45am, Bridge of Remembrance.
– Dunedin: 11.10-11.45am Outside Ōtepoti Building facing Queens Gardens.
Additionally, at 11am, members in Nelson are staging a walkout from their office at 47 Collingwood Street.
