The Gawler and Barossa communities are playing a major role in the ongoing dispute between Pernod Ricard Winemakers and their workers as pressure mounts to save the reputation of the company and the region.
The 100+ workers are now gearing up for the long-haul in their bid for a fair pay-rise after committing to continue undertaking 24-hour rolling stoppages.
The announcement comes following Pernod Ricard Winemakers unwillingness to budge from a one-year enterprise agreement deal, blaming its intended sale to AWL (Australian Wine Holdco Limited).
The community is rallying behind the cause by supporting the workers publicly in the street and through media streams, and also financially through the Pernod Ricard Strike Hardship Fund.
Member for Light and Duty Member for Schubert, Tony Piccolo MP, welcomes the fund as many workers are choosing to strike without pay to fight for better conditions, but is concerned for what could become a drawn-out dispute and the impact on all parties.
“These workers feel betrayed that negotiations regarding their futures seems to have already happened without even having a seat at the table,” said Mr Piccolo.
“It’s important for these workers to fight for their job security and fair pay, or at least to be fairly compensated for their many years of service if only a one-year contract can be offered and uncertainty surrounds their future employment.
“This conflict impacts the value of both the Barossa and the business, and these workers, so it’s in our community’s best interest to support the workers to show Pernod Ricard Winemakers that they need to come to the table to resolve this issue otherwise it won’t go away.
“I have written to Pernod Ricard Winemakers CEO Bryan Fry and made him aware that I am willing to take the matter to the broader community and State Parliament should negotiations continue to stall.”
The workers took to the streets of Tanunda on Tuesday with a police escort, receiving strong local community support from both motorists and pedestrians as they passed through.
United Workers Union Organiser Ben Reichstein said workers made the tough decision to proceed with rolling 24-hour stoppages due to minimal improvement in the offer from the company.
“This is a big ask for workers who are forgoing pay as they fight for better wages and conditions to support their families and community,” said Mr Reichstein.
“We know that good, secure jobs are the lifeblood of our local families and regional communities.
“Workers are committed to continuing the fight until a fair, reasonable, and secure offer is presented to union members, many of whom have shown loyalty and dedication to this multi-million-dollar company for over 10, 20, and even 30 years.
“In a cost-of-living crisis, it’s time for workers to be paid a fair share.”
Those who would like to help support the workers in their battle can submit an email to Pernod Ricard Winemakers CEO Bryan Fry (www.uwu.org.au/pl9) and donate to the workers (www.chuffed.org/project/pernod-ricard-strike-hardship-fund).