Hutt City Mayor Ken Laban Supports Resene Workers on Strike

Incoming Hutt City Mayor Ken Laban joined a picket line on Wednesday, demonstrating solidarity with striking workers from Resene, a prominent employer in the community. The workers protested against what they described as an inadequate pay offer from the paint manufacturing company, which is currently facing negotiations with the E tū union.

Laban’s appearance at the strike highlighted his commitment to advocating for fair wages. Many members of the local Naenae community rallied alongside him, some contributing their own funds to support the workers during the two-hour walkout. “I’m very proud the Hutt City Council is a living wage employer,” Laban stated to the gathered crowd, expressing hopes that Resene would similarly adopt a living wage policy.

The current living wage in New Zealand stands at $28.95 per hour, while the country’s minimum wage is $23.50. According to the union E tū, Resene’s proposed wage increase of only 2% falls short of this benchmark, which they describe as “insulting” to the workforce.

In a statement released on the same day, Resene defended its wage offer, claiming it aligns with industry standards for manufacturing sector wage increases for the current 12-month period. “We will continue to negotiate in good faith with the E tū union, who represent a small segment of our manufacturing workforce,” the company asserted.

Union delegate Margaret “Mags” Jackson, who has been with Resene for over 11 years, shared her frustration. While she earns above the minimum wage, her compensation remains below the living wage. “We can’t afford the basics anymore,” she remarked, highlighting the increasing costs of essential goods such as housing, groceries, and healthcare.

The sentiment among the workers was one of anger and disappointment. Jackson continued, “It’s an insult to us as workers. It makes us feel undervalued and diminished. We are important, we matter, and we have families to provide for.”

E tū Team Leader Finn O’Dwyer-Cunliffe echoed these sentiments, expressing dissatisfaction with Resene’s bargaining approach. He stated, “Resene is a profitable company. They should return to the table with an offer that includes the Living Wage for their workers and reflects the values of the wider community they are part of in Naenae.”

As the negotiations continue, the outcome will not only impact the workers at Resene but will also resonate throughout the community, raising questions about the responsibility of local employers in providing fair wages to their employees.