22 Dec 2022

Ministry of Justice reaches pay deal with PSA after month of disruption

5:21 pm on 22 December 2022
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The PSA said many members are among the lowest-paid in the public sector. Photo: RNZ / Anneke Smith

The Ministry of Justice and Public Service Association have reached a pay agreement following more than a month of industrial action.

Employees reduced some courts to just two-and-a-half hours' sitting time a day - working to rule forcing huge delays, courts being regularly cleared out so staff can take breaks.

The PSA said many members are among the lowest-paid in the public sector, and the agreement will help them cope with the rising cost of living.

"We realise the industrial action has been disruptive to those relying on the justice system so it's really pleasing we now have an offer we hope members find acceptable," said Ministry of Justice secretary for justice and chief executive Andrew Kibblewhite.

The terms of the deal are staying confidential while the union consults its members. That process is expected to be completed in January.

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