Update: Maritime workers are celebrating after a successful resolution of the Port of Napier dispute in mediation yesterday. “We wanted shipping companies to be able to use stevedores where secure local jobs could be achieved. Shipping companies wanted a solution, we supplied one, and the port is back in action as of now.” [ More ]

140 workers gathered outside the gates of the Port of Napier on Saturday (15th Dec.) morning to protest the loss of 85 secure jobs. Mediation between the Maritime Union (MUNZ) and Port Company is still going on but no agreement has been reached. Moves by the Port of Napier to contract out stevedoring work threaten 25 permanent and 60 casual jobs of organised workers.

The actions of the Maritime Union have the support of the other waterfront union, the Rail and Maritime Transport Union, as well as the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions. MUNZ president Mr Hanson says the Port of Napier risks being identified as a "port of convenience" by the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), which could have major implications for its viability.

Links: Maritime Union of New Zealand | Photos of Maritime Union picket at Port of Napier | Port of Napier Campaign 2007 | Labourstart.org