Labor welcomes today’s announcement that all 250 jobs at TEMCO’s Bell Bay smelter will be secured by its new buyer.
Labor Member for Bass Michelle O’Byrne said this puts an end to months of uncertainty for the community.
“We know many workers at the smelter were concerned about their job security, and the news all jobs are assured is welcome relief.
“The smelter is a major regional employer, and the financial security provided to workers will see a flow on effect in the local economy.
“What’s needed now is for government to gain an assurance that local businesses will also benefit from the infrastructure investment, and that work will not be contracted out to interstate companies.
“This is not a signal that the government can afford complacency around protecting every existing Tasmanian job, or creating new jobs in the state.
“Labor’s COVID-19 Recovery Package outlines clear plans to get Tasmanians into jobs, including free TAFE courses to retrain workers pushed out of their positions.
“We urge the government to do more than pin its hopes on an infrastructure program to create the jobs Tasmanians need now.”
Michelle O’Byrne
Labor Member for Bass
