Planting a positive protest message
Instead of waving placards, striking public servants in Nelson took a more down-toearth approach.
About 20 staff from Inland Revenue (IRD) and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) in Nelson got their hands dirty on Monday, helping to plant trees near Tahunanui Beach. It was part of a co-ordinated strike in which 4000 PSA members around the country took industrial action over pay.
The group initially planned to do a beach cleanup, but after rain set in, the decision was made to plant trees instead.
‘‘We asked the members what they wanted to do. This is democracy at its best,’’ said PSA Nelson organiser Josh Gardner. ‘‘They decided as a small group, how much impact could they really have standing outside a building? So they decided to come out and have a bit more of a positive impact.’’
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) compliance officer Richard Wilson said the decision to take strike action was a last resort, so it was good to do something to give back to the community.
INZ was formerly a division of the Department of Labour before becoming part of the 2012 merger that formed MBIE.
‘‘There hasn’t been a time since 2012 where we have been able to reach an agreement with our employer without having to take industrial action,’’ Wilson said. ‘‘It is a bit sad, really, when you think MBIE is responsible for employment relations from a government perspective.’’
He said that despite the rain, he was enjoying the chance to volunteer.
‘‘I think this sends a stronger message than standing outside in the Nelson town centre with placards.’’
PSA national secretary Glenn Barclay said members at IRD had not taken strike action in 22 years.
‘‘We’re asking for fair pay systems and a modest across-the-board pay increase, but both employers have refused – and MBIE even suggested staff work longer hours for the same pay.’’