ACI extends lockout
By Chris Slee
MELBOURNE — Locked out workers at the ACI glass mould manufacturing plant in Box Hill have received letters from the company telling them that the lockout will continue until March 4.
The lockout, which began on December 20, results from a dispute over an enterprise agreement. The workers want a pay rise while retaining their existing work conditions. The company is trying to impose unrestricted management prerogative, make workers do extra duties with no extra pay and introduce de facto casualisation.
The workers are not intimidated by the company's tactics and are prepared to continue the struggle until they win an acceptable enterprise agreement. They are receiving financial support from the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union's hardship fund, and from other workers. Workers at the Docklands construction site, for example, recently donated $17,000.
The AMWU is challenging the legality of the lockout in the Federal Court. It is also challenging the company's refusal to pay the workers' accumulated annual leave and holiday pay entitlements.
Supporters are encouraged to visit the picket line in Lexton Road, Box Hill. You can even get your car washed there for a $5 donation!