More disruption to TVNZ as workers walk out again

Television New Zealand viewers can expect more disruption to scheduled programming this week as workers continue to strike for increased pay.

Staff again walked off the job at 11.15am today.

"These surprise strikes are clearly having an impact on the delivery of programmes which should leave TVNZ in no doubt that our members are serious about getting a fair deal," said Brenden Sheehan, PSA Union Organiser at TVNZ.

Workers from the Public Service Association (PSA) union last night threatened to disrupt the screening of the live two-hour final of NZ Idol, but instead production staff walked out during a motorsports show.

TVNZ aired music videos instead.

The workers are calling for a 5 per cent pay increase and additional annual leave, instead of the 2.25 per cent increase on offer.

PSA organiser Brendan Sheehan told National Radio today the union was not in favour of long strikes because they were bad for workers' pay packets.

TVNZ said it would attempt to minimise disruptions and stick to scheduled programming as much as possible.

- NZPA, NZHERALD STAFF