Unions support steel workers

ACTU President Ged Kearney said unions were concerned by the news 1000 jobs would be lost when BlueScope Steel closed two of its production facilities, at Port Kembla in NSW and Western Port in Victoria, but there was some solace in that the workers would not be left out in the cold by the actions.

“It is essential that Government provides industry assistance at times like this, when we have a high Australian dollar, which is obviously placing pressure on Australia’s vulnerable manufacturing sector,” Ms Kearney said.

“We cannot sit back and watch our manufacturing industry crumble under pressure from lost export dollars associated with the high dollar, coupled with a low steel value compared with high raw material costs.

“So unions are relieved to hear the Government will take immediate action to support BlueScope Steel workers and their families affected by the effects of these difficult circumstances.

“Manufacturing is a major contributor to Australia’s economy and we must support the industry in order for it to maintain international competitiveness and to ensure local jobs.”

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