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Meatworkers Fired for Drinking: Investigation Confirms Misconduct

11/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Three meatworkers at Alliance Group’s Lorneville Plant in Southland were dismissed for serious misconduct in March 2023 after being accused of drinking alcohol at work.
The workers claimed they filled empty pre-mixed cans with soft drink, but a video of the incident surfaced online.
An investigation confirmed that one worker, identified as Hubbard, tested positive for alcohol.
The Employment Relations Authority deemed the dismissals justified, stating the investigation met legal standards despite imperfections.
Alliance Group upheld strict policies against alcohol use, while the workers sought compensation for their dismissals.

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Story summary

Three meatworkers at Alliance Group’s Lorneville Plant in Southland were dismissed for serious misconduct in March 2023 after being accused of drinking alcohol at work.
The workers claimed they filled empty pre-mixed cans with soft drink, but a video of the incident surfaced online.
An investigation confirmed that one worker, identified as Hubbard, tested positive for alcohol.
The Employment Relations Authority deemed the dismissals justified, stating the investigation met legal standards despite imperfections.
Alliance Group upheld strict policies against alcohol use, while the workers sought compensation for their dismissals.