ACC workers in Christchurch will walk off the job tomorrow morning as part of ongoing industrial action over what the Public Service Association (PSA) says is an unacceptable pay offer.

Union members will picket at the Bridge of Remembrance from 11.10am to 11.45am, joining colleagues striking in other centres.

PSA National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons said workers were struggling to keep pace with the rising cost of living, with many earning less than the living wage.

“Since the last strike in July, ACC has failed to make a pay offer that values their workers and helps them keep up with the cost of living,” she said.

A PSA survey of members found 78 percent reported it had become harder to afford basic necessities such as food, housing and utilities. More than half had been looking for other jobs with better pay, while 37 percent had sought extra income through second jobs or borrowing. Fourteen respondents said they had needed to rely on foodbanks.

“Everybody deserves to be paid fairly for their work and have enough to care for themselves and their family. With this strike, our members are showing ACC they will not stand for being paid less than what they need to live with dignity,” Fitzsimons said.

Tomorrow’s picket will be the second in as many months by ACC workers.