Aviation security workers are threatening to strike unless they get a decent pay rise, and unions warn there will be “significant disruption” to travelers.
An E tu spokeswoman confirmed the workers had lodged 14 days’ notice of intended strike action, which could hit main centres and possibly the regions on July 20.
However she said the union was hoping mediation and a “decent pay rise” would lead to a resolution before a strike became necessary.
The Public Service Association said workers voted for three-hour strikes at Auckland and Wellington airports and a ban on overtime and extra hours at Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
would be the first time workers had walked off the job in three decades, national secretary Glenn Barclay said.
“There will be significant disruption to the travelling public.
“Our members are very reluctant to do this, but they feel like they have no choice.”
The latest contract offer by the Aviation Security Service would see some members go three years without a pay rise, he said.
In January, workers threatened to strike after transport allowances to and from the airport were cut.
Large numbers of aviation security workers are unionised are collectively represented by E tu, the Public Service Association and the National Union of Public Employees.
PLANNED STRIKE DATES:
* AUCKLAND
July 20, 10am – 1.30pm
July 25, 3.30pm – 16.30pm
July 27, 5.30am – 8.30am
* WELLINGTON
July 20, 10am – 1.30pm
July 22, 3.30pm – 6.30pm
July 26, 5.30am – 8.30am
* CHRISTCHURCH
July 20, 25, 27: Overtime/extra hours banned all day