Union denied access to meat plant

The Affco Imlay freezing works in Gonville, Whanganui. Photo / Wanganui Chronicle

Meat inspectors at a Whanganui plant say they have to meet their union representative on a public road after being denied a meeting at the workplace.

Meat inspectors at the Affco Imlay meat plant trying to meet their Public Service Association (PSA) representative were told the meeting could not happen today as a European Union (EU) audit of a company-led meat inspection trial was under way.

"I don't think EU representatives will be impressed by this action given that the EU promotes dialogue between employers and trade unions," PSA national secretary Richard Wagstaff said.

Meat inspectors will now have to meet their PSA union representative on a public road near the plant.

The Affco Imlay plant was different to other meat plants because of a secretive company-led meat inspection trial, Mr Wagstaff said.

"Blocking workers from meeting with their representatives does nothing to build confidence in the trials."

PSA union organiser Mike Farrell said reasonable notice was given of the planned meeting but he was denied access this morning.

- NZPA