Union delivers 7000 open letters to Sistema bosses

A union delegation from E tu¯ has presented plastics manufacturer Sistema with 7000 open letters calling for it to improve the pay and conditions of its workers. Sistema, which was bought for $660 million 18 months ago by a US Fortune 500 company, produces containers that have become a staple in New Zealand kitchens and workplace tearooms. E tu¯ said its action yesterday sent a strong message from the public to Sistema, which the union understood was struggling to find staff after revelations of offering low pay and long hours. Of the 500 production staff who work at its purpose-built Mangere plant, about 200 are union members. A Sistema spokesman said negotiations were ongoing and mediation was scheduled for Tuesday. ‘‘Sistema has no further comment to make.’’