More industrial action to come
United Voice members at the Federal Group’s Wrest Point Casino have voted down the employer’s wages and conditions offer for a third time this year.
Union members have been most upset by the lack of respect from management, and ongoing attempts to reduce roster security.
The third no vote comes on the back of months of protected industrial action by members, including stoppages during last week’s Melbourne Cup.
United Voice Tasmania Secretary, Jannette Armstrong, said, “United Voice members at Wrest Point are fed up. They have not been asking for much – just a fair deal that delivers jobs they can count on.”
“The Federal Group went to the recent state election feigning concern for their employee’s jobs. We want the broader community to see the truth, and there’s no denying it now. The Farrells and the Federal Group don’t care about Tasmanians, they only care about lining their own pockets.” Said Ms Armstrong.
United Voice Delegate, Simon Davis, said, “We told Mr Farrell he would lose by a bigger margin if they put the same offer out to vote again, and that’s exactly what happened. They need to come back to the table with a fair deal, otherwise members are resolute in continuing our industrial action over the Christmas and new year period.”
Wrest Point workers haven’t had a pay increase for two years. This situation underscores why the Australian union movement is campaigning to Change The Rules.
“That we’ve even gotten to this position where an employer can put out what is essentially the same agreement three times in a row, is ludicrous. It is a classic example of why we need to change the rules.” said Ms Armstrong.
Jannette Armstrong is United Voice Tasmania Secretary
