MEMBERS of the National Union of Workers this morning kicked off indefinite strike action at Chemist Warehouse (CWH) distribution centres, confirming the walkout endorsed last week (PD 04 Mar).
Described by union National Secretary, Tim Kennedy, as a "David and Goliath struggle," the staff are demanding "wages and conditions on par with industry standards," as well as conversion of roles from labour hire casual to permanent positions, and "an end to the toxic culture of bullying and harassment".
The union claims to have recruited up to 75% of permanent employees at the CWH Melbourne distribution centre, up from just 10% a year ago.
The union said it planned to operate picket lines 24 hours a day at Chemist Warehouse locations in Melbourne and Brisbane, with ACTU Secretary Sally McManus making a public appearance at the Preston, Vic site this morning.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 12 Mar 19
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