Auckland negotiations frustration with unions

“As a reminder, we formally accepted the whole package of recommendations made by the facilitator nearly six months ago,” it stated. “MUNZ are yet to accept them.

“We were always conscious that a compromise was needed from both parties and so although we do not agree with all aspects of the recommendations, we are willing to accept it and do a deal.”

The next target date for facilitation is tomorrow, July 24.

Meanwhile, National MP Jami-Lee Ross has launched the Employment Relations Amendment Bill which would allow businesses to engage temporary employees during a lockout or strike.

Mr Ross has confirmed the Bill, which was recently drawn from the ballot, has its origins in the Ports of Auckland dispute.

“Like every other organisation that is affected by a strike, they’re unable to keep their business going in the same manner that they did before,” he says.

“That has a big impact on the economy, and it has a bigger impact on the people who are employed.”

Opposition parties have labelled the Bill as “extreme”.