The Employment Relations Authority is being asked intervene in the dispute between disability care workers and their employer, IDEA Services.
Photo: 123RF
Following a week of failed mediation talks, the workers would once again strike at 9am today.
Today's industrial action was the seventh strike in eight months, with workers wanting better pay and weekend rates, as well as more health and safety rights.
Talks broke down on Thursday between the company and E tū union, which was representing some of the workers.
Alastair Duncan from E tū said the lack of progress had lead them to apply for a facilitation hearing by the Employment Relations Authority.
That would take place on Tuesday because workers were getting frustrated at the lack of progress.
"We've had multiple mediations, days of bargaining, actually people want to get on with the job of supporting New Zealanders with intellectual disabilities," Mr Duncan said.
"That's why the symbolism of having had multiple strikes and it falling on deaf ears, leaves us little option."
IDEA Service in a statement said it was working hard to ensure safety during today's strike.
Its chief operating officer, Joan Cowan, said wherever possible it would be using the same people to cover shifts so that there were as few new faces as possible.
Managers would be also be working to cover shifts, Ms Cowan said.
IDEA Services remained committed to achieving a collective agreement for Support Workers and continues to participate fully in negotiations and mediation sessions, she said.
