Mining and Energy Union
Workers at Rix's Creek Mine have overwhelmingly voted down the Bloomfield Group's proposed enterprise agreement, with 92.6% voting no over the weekend in a clear rejection of the company's so-called "renewed" offer.
The proposed deal was the same "renewed offer" Bloomfield referred to in its public statement earlier this month — but what the company failed to mention was that the new proposal was even worse than the one workers had already rejected, an antagonistic move that has only deepened members' resolve.
Rix's Creek miners are now entering their fifth week of strike action, standing strong in their fight for a fair agreement that reflects modern wages and conditions, including proper accident pay that doesn't leave injured workers out of pocket.
"This wasn't a genuine attempt to resolve the dispute," said Mitchell Hill, Lodge President at Rix's Creek.
"It was an antagonistic move designed to divide the workforce and undermine bargaining. Instead of addressing the core issues, Bloomfield came back with something that took us backwards."
Mr Hill said the overwhelming result sent a clear message that workers are united and determined to get a better deal.
"Members have seen through Bloomfield's tactics, and they won't be bullied or divided. We want an agreement that respects the work we do and keeps injured workers whole."
The Mining and Energy Union will continue to push for a fair resolution that recognises the essential contribution of members and ensures every worker is treated with the respect they deserve.
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