Hornby Club workers are set to strike for the second time in a month, walking off the job tonight from 5pm until midnight in a dispute over pay and conditions.
Union E tū said the industrial action comes after the employer failed to make meaningful progress in bargaining.
E tū member Lucas MacManus said staff were fed up with being ignored. “We haven’t seen any real change since we first went on strike, and we’re not backing down. Our requests are simple: respect, and a workplace that listens. We’re tired of waiting around while nothing actually happens, and we won’t settle for anything less than the dignity and progression we deserve.”
E tū organiser Alex Hewison said the Hornby Club’s latest pay offer would see new workers start on less than the Living Wage, breaking with the club’s previous practice of matching that rate.
“For years, the Hornby Club has kept their printed pay rates in line with the Living Wage, but their latest proposal would see new workers start on less,” Hewison said. “That means lower wages for the people coming in next, fewer opportunities for advancement, and a workplace that’s going backwards instead of forwards.
“Our members want to see their club thrive, but they won’t accept a race to the bottom on wages and conditions. Until the Hornby Club is prepared to listen and move, members will keep standing together and taking action.”
Hornby Club General Manager Tim Mathews said: “The Union representing 15 of our staff is currently negotiating contracts.
“As part of this negotiation, union members are entitled to strike.
“Four of the six Union members working this evening have joined in the strike action today.
“The Hornby Club’s willingness to negotiate and work towards a solution that will meet the needs of our staff and members remains. Our position remains the same; we are committed to fair pay and creating a safe and supportive working environment for all our team.
“The Club is open to business as usual throughout the strike action and is supported by our remaining, non-unionised, 55 members of staff. We thank them for their support during this time.”
