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A. LE FLOCH
THE threat of industrial action against Bundaberg Sugar is becoming increasingly likely, as Enterprise Bargaining Agreement negotiations between management and unions remain in stalemate.
“Negotiations would appear to be going to hell in a handbasket,” Australian Workers Union organiser Tony Beers said, after an early morning meeting at Millaquin Mill yesterday.
Mr Beers described Bundaberg Sugar as being “extremely dogmatic.”
“The company said there would be no agreements unless workers sell out entitlements such as travel leave,” he said.
At another meeting on April 3, workers unanimously rejected a proposal that the company would buy out one week's worth of annual leave, which was provided to compensate for travel time.
After months of meetings and going back and forth between Bundaberg Sugar management and its staff, the Australian Workers Union, the Australian Metal Workers Union and the Electrical Trades Union, remain united in their campaign.
“The workers are becoming angry,” Mr Beers said.
“I believe this year we will see the worst industrial disputation I've ever seen if it is not sorted quickly.”
He said it looked likely that industrial action would delay the crush, which is scheduled to start in late June.
“It's looking pretty bad,” Mr Beers said.
He said workers were “determined to make a stand” and would be starting discussions about industrial action.
“They will be talking about starting the process for taking industrial action, and deciding what action to take,” Mr Beer said.
A mass meeting with workers and the unions will be held on Wednesday, outside the gates at Millaquin, after the unions once more take their demands to management.
The management of Bundaberg Sugar could not be reached for comment yesterday.