Pacific Fuel Haul, a division of TIL Logistics Group, says notice of strike action has been withdrawn following successful mediation and agreed terms in principle with First Union.
The union, which represents around 65% of truck drivers at Pacific Fuel Haul, was threatening industrial action from December 18 to 24.
The agreed terms of settlement will now be put to 182 union member truck drivers to vote on.
Pacific Fuel Haul says it’s pleased to have reached this agreement, which will ensure no disruption to fuel supplies in the busy lead up to Christmas, and further enhances the working and pay conditions for its drivers.
“We pride ourselves on the employment terms we offer our drivers, including three months of training for new drivers, hourly rates well above industry average, sick leave, long tenure bonuses and redundancy provisions,” Pacific Fuel Haul chief executive Stephen Owles says.
“The terms agreed today will further enhance our offer to our valued and specialist drivers and reinforces our position as a leading employer in the sector.
“The Union will recommend to its members to accept the agreement reached at the bargaining table.
“We are conscious that this has been a stressful time for all involved including our drivers, other staff and our customers, and we are happy that we have been able to reach a resolution before Christmas,” Owles says.
Pacific Fuel Haul Limited operates a fleet of over 200 tankers and 400 dangerous goods vehicles. It covers the North and South Island and includes cartage of petroleum and aviation fuel for both of Z Energy’s brands, Z and Caltex.
First Union secretary Jared Abbott says the recommended settlement subject to ratification includes the following:
- a 1.6% pay increase on back-dated to 1 August 2020
- a further 2% increase on 1 August 2021
- increase entitlement to sick leave for all employees to 10 days from the date of ratification
- a clause ensuring otherwise non-cover drivers will receive the cover driver rate when covering shifts in a different location
- a minimum 14 days’ notice of requirement to work a public holiday if otherwise a working day
- an increase of the buddy training allowance to $1.20
- a term of 2 years from expiry of the last agreement
- no claw-backs or reduction in terms in conditions
