Metalworkers picket for pay rise

Auckland metalworkers are taking industrial action this afternoon in support of their bid for a 5 per cent pay rise.

The Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union (EPMU) said workers representing at least 12 companies would mount a two-hour picket in Avondale from midday.

The picket would be on Rosebank Rd in an area where there are several metal companies.

EPMU national secretary Andrew Little said metalworkers were determined to get the two-month-old dispute resolved.

He said many employers wanted to settle, and industrial action would continue until the others agreed.

"We are really dealing with the rump of employers who are saying, no, they are not prepared to agree," he said.

The Metals and Manufacturing Industries Collective Agreement covers workers at 220 companies directly and sets the going rates and conditions across the private sector.

The EPMU is leading the so-called Fair Share -- Five in 05 campaign for a pay rise of at least 5 per cent for all working people.

- NZPA