Union agrees to halt action, locked out workers return to work
15 April 2009
AUCKLAND — Synovate has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Unite Union, a crucial step towards a final settlement.
The key points of the MOU are:
- Synovate and the union members will set up a working party to negotiate a performance pay scheme for interviewing staff.
- The working party has six weeks from 14th April to reach agreement.
- During that time, there will be no further strike action, nor will there be any other industrial, picket or protest action against or targeting the company, its clients or associated individuals.
- Union members will return to work immediately.
The outcome in terms of pay rates and any other payments has not yet been agreed.
Any claims that pay rises have been granted "are premature and inaccurate," said Synovate managing director Ian Mills. "We have simply agreed a framework within which to negotiate. We are convinced that this is the correct way to resolve this dispute."
"Synovate would like to thank its staff and clients for their support during this difficult time," Mills added.
On April 14th, Unite protestors picketed the Auckland and Wellington offices of Synovate clients, including the Ministry of Social Development and ASB Bank.
Get the facts about the Synovate strike in New Zealand at www.synovate.com/factsaboutnzstrike.
Contact(s) for this press release
|
Ian Mills
Managing Director |
Telephone: +64-21-655139 |
Synovate generates insights to help clients drive competitive brand, product and customer experience strategies. Now part of Ipsos, with offices in over 80 countries, our approach combines best in class global research capabilities with personalised service, local knowledge and the flexibility to create teams and processes that meet clients' specific requirements. At Synovate, our clients sit at the top of our organisational chart, driving us to continually develop more innovative research solutions that predict actual business outcomes.
For more information on Synovate visit www.synovate.com.