New Union

This week marks an historic moment for the union movement in New Zealand, with the launch of the new union formed from the merger of the Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union and the Service and Food Workers’ Union.

The new union’s name and logo will be revealed in Wellington attended by workers, unionists, politicians and community members.

The details of the launch are:

• Wednesday 7 October, 10am – 12 noon

A livestream of the launch will be available (link is here) and syndication links will be sent to major networks. Media packs will be available with information about the new union, its key contact people, name and industries.

The co-presidents and national secretary of the new union will be available for interviews after the launch.

The new union will cover over 50,000 members in eight industry groups:

• Aviation: including engineers, flight attendants and ground crew
• Communications: including telecommunications, postal services, and media
• Community Support: including aged care and social services
• Energy and Mining: including coal mining, oil and gas exploration and refining
• Engineering and Infrastructure: including fabrication, timber and construction workers
• Food: including preparation, processing and production, for large retailers, small businesses and public hospitals.
• Manufacturing: including metals and plastics manufacturing
• Public and Commercial: including hospitals, tourism, local government and cleaners

 SFWU members voted on the merger in mass meetings, with 95.8% in favour. EPMU members voted through a postal ballot, with 84% in favour.