Thursday, November 21, 2013

Qld: Newman Government Offshores Rail Jobs

The AMWU has condemned the Queensland Government for sending potential local jobs offshore after they ordered a new train fleet to be manufactured in Germany.

AMWU State Secretary Rohan Webb said the move to build 75 six-car trains offshore by German-based consortium for the Queensland Rail Network in 2015 is openly shunning Queensland manufacturing.

“Queensland has the Downer EDI, a functioning facility in Maryborough, capable of such a project. So why send potential local jobs offshore – when we have the capacity to complete them on home soil?

“Downer EDI at Maryborough has taken a beating in recent years after rail projects have gone overseas and was forced to withdraw from the tender process for this project because of the financial penalties throughout the contract.

“This could have been a chance to revitalise the local economy of Maryborough.

“If the government was prepared to offer some flexibility rather than the tough penalties in the contract, Downer EDI could have been a contender and keep jobs and economic stimulation in the local area,” Mr Webb said.

“It is a crying shame Downer was forced into this position and Mr Newman has openly acknowledged he is excluding local manufacturing - it is astounding.

“The rail manufacturing industry in Maryborough contributes to 30% of this regions’ economy and has provided employment and training opportunities for over three decades.

“By openly admitting Queensland doesn’t get a look in for this project is a kick in the teeth, especially when there is a need for projects such as these.

“There is no vision from the Government about the future of manufacturing, no policy or agenda for the industry in Queensland and it is extremely disappointing.

“This isn’t the first time the Queensland manufacturing industry has been shunned by its own government; it was also snubbed by the Newman’s four pillars.

“These include; tourism, agriculture, construction and resources but completely overlooked manufacturing.

“Manufacturing is the lifeblood of many local communities the Government needs to acknowledge this.”

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