Printers beat Murdoch

Issue 

Printers beat Murdoch

By Jenny Long

SYDNEY — Printing workers at Rupert Murdoch's News Limited voted to return to work on July 17 after defeating company attempts to impose significant and retrograde changes in working conditions in a new production plant at Chullora, south-west of here. The workers, members of the Printing and Kindred Industries Union (PKIU), were on strike for nine days, during which picket lines were maintained.

Under the proposed new arrangements demanded by News Limited, the company would have run the overtime rosters, replacing workers on overtime with casual workers; used staff members in the machine room (so that they could replace workers during a strike); and limited the role of the traditionally militant PKIU.

In addition to retaining their existing conditions, the union was able to raise a number of other issues associated with the new plant. These include the use by the company of video cameras in the workplace and the lack of public transport to the isolated plant; these will be looked at by a joint committee of workers and management.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.