Ms Helen Kelly
President
New Zealand Council of Trade Unions
PO Box 6645, Marion Square
Wellington 6141
New Zealand
Dear Helen,
On behalf of the entire Australian union movement, you have our support at this time.
We share the sorrow of all New Zealanders at the tragic loss of life, and the impact this earthquake will have on the lives and livelihoods of tens of thousands of New Zealanders.
Coming so soon after the floods and other natural disasters that wreaked havoc across Australia this summer, the earthquake that has shaken Christchurch is another horrible blow.
New Zealand is Australia’s closest economic partner, and the union movements of our two nations are equally close.
The workers of Australia and of New Zealand share the same aspirations that work will deliver a better life for themselves and their families.
We know that in New Zealand, as in Australia, unionists have a long and proud history of helping their fellow workmates in times of natural disaster.
We share your pride at the dedication and hard work of union members in emergency services, healthcare, the community sector, media covering the events, and others involved in the disaster.
Please pass on the condolences and sympathy of the Australian union movement in any way you can.
Yours faithfully,
Ged Kearney
President
Photo by Dawn De Plater
