Resene Workers Strike Again Over Insufficient Pay Increase

Workers at the well-known New Zealand paint company Resene have initiated a second strike in response to a meager pay increase offer of just eight cents per hour. The E tū Union claims that Resene would require an additional $200,000 annually to provide its employees with a living wage, which they deem a “drop in the ocean” when compared to the company’s overall revenue.

The ongoing financial struggles of factory workers have been highlighted by their personal testimonies. Many have reported facing challenges such as being unable to afford birthday gifts for their children and relying on canned food due to low wages amid rising living costs. In light of these circumstances, Living Wage Aotearoa New Zealand launched a campaign earlier this year urging Resene to adopt a living wage of $28.95 per hour. This wage is intended to cover basic necessities and allow for modest leisure activities and savings.

The managing director of Resene, Nick Nightingale, has not publicly addressed the living wage campaign, which advocates for a base rate for employees who work for companies that join the initiative. The initial strike occurred in October when Resene’s previous offer of an average increase of 76 cents per hour was rejected by workers, many of whom earn just above the minimum wage of $23.50.

Further complicating negotiations, Resene proposed a 2% increase to two allowances, resulting in a mere 26-cent increase for meal allowances during lengthy shifts and an additional 28 cents for first aid allowances. Union delegate Lui Betham characterized this earlier offer as “pretty much a kick in the guts.”

The latest strike action is taking place today and tomorrow, with workers demanding a more substantial pay increase. The current offer stands at an average of 84 cents more than the last, which many workers still find insufficient. Margaret Jackson, another union delegate, expressed the sentiment of the workers, stating, “Resene still thinks we’re not important enough to pay the Living Wage. Their latest offer makes us feel like we’re just a number.”

Despite the disappointment, Jackson reported that workers are unified and motivated. “The vibe is pretty amped up, everyone’s ready to go for round two,” she said, praising the community support that has been instrumental in their campaign. “It shows there are genuine people out there who care.”

Betham echoed this sentiment, explaining that the company’s refusal to open negotiations for a higher wage has led workers to strike again. “We’re striking again to get the living wage and to show Resene we’re not backing down,” he declared. He emphasized that the latest offer did not reflect a real dollar increase and described it as “insulting.”

Community backing has also been substantial, with individuals and organizations rallying in support of the striking workers. Support from St David’s Church and others has helped raise funds to cover lost wages during the strike. Finn Cordwell, a living wage community organizer, noted the solidarity among the public, stating, “The country is uniting behind these workers.”

Resene has previously commented on the situation, asserting that their pay offer aligns with the annual wage increases typical within the manufacturing sector. A spokesperson stated, “We will continue to negotiate in good faith with the E Tū union, who represent a small segment of our manufacturing workforce.”

Nightingale has been quoted expressing skepticism about the living wage initiative, suggesting that it unfairly rewards all workers equally, regardless of performance. He has reiterated his commitment to a merit-based pay system.

As negotiations continue, the striking workers remain steadfast in their demands for a fair wage that reflects their contributions to Resene’s profits. The community’s ongoing support serves as a reminder of the human impact behind the numbers, fueling their determination to achieve a living wage.