Port Kembla Coal Terminal workers stand firm over job security, extend strike until Monday

Port Kembla Coal Terminal workers stand firm over job security, extend strike until Monday

Port Kembla Coal Terminal workers will strike until Monday, after a two-week lock by the company expired this morning.

CFMEU Mining and Energy South Western District Vice President Bob Timbs said PKCT’s South 32 management had given no indication they were willing to change their position on offering genuine job security in a new enterprise agreement.

“Our members at PKCT have negotiated in good faith, attending over 100 meetings with the company to try and reach a new agreement,” Mr Timbs said.

“However, at a time casualisation has reached epidemic proportions in our region, they are not willing to stand by and let their permanent jobs be contracted out.

“Our members appreciate the support they’ve received from across the community. People understand that our region generates a lot of wealth for big companies, but we need to fight to protect rights and conditions for working people.”

Workers will continue to volunteer their labour for worthwhile community projects while the dispute continues, said Mr Timbs.