StelTech engineers vote to strike

Auckland StelTech engineers in the EPMU have voted to take strike action after the company refused to give them a pay rise for the second year running.

The strike action started with a picket line being set up outside the company's premises in Takanini. The action is being taken by all 11 engineers employed by StelTech, which is a subsidiary of New Zealand Steel.

"Our members are taking a stand against StelTech's refusal to offer a pay rise for the second year running," says EPMU organiser Steve Westoby.

"The strike also comes after the company scrapped a bonus scheme last year which meant our members lost around $10,000 each out of their annual pay packet," he says.

"In contrast New Zealand Steel recently gave it's workforce a 4% pay rise."

"Our member will stay out on strike for as long as it takes to get the company to come to its senses and make a reasonable offer."