September 18, 2013
The Electrical Trades Union says the release of internal Ergon Energy documents has confirmed that 525 jobs have been axed – including frontline staff – at the State Government-owned corporation since last year.
A union spokesman said today the release of the 30-year electricity strategy discussion paper and “a flurry of media activity from the State Electricity Minister since the Federal election” were clear signs the State Government was “preparing to resume its attack on electricity workers”.
The spokesman said the apparent failure of the discussion paper to include any reference to consultation with workers in the industry, combined with the State Government’s continuing silence on depot closures and the sell-off of remote generation, were signs it is preparing to “take on” the union.
“Since the LNP came to power last year they have actively sought to attack our members, their conditions and the industry,” State Organiser Stuart Traill said.
“This is clearly evidenced by the ongoing frontline job cuts across Energex, Ergon and Stanwell with more than 1000 jobs axed across the sector as a result of mandated cuts to budgets including severe cuts to maintenance services.
“And that is before the government moves on its in principle agreement to sell 33 remote generation assets and close up to 40 Ergon depots.
“If this (ETU State) conference is anything to go by, the Premier and the Minister should take heed, we are not going anywhere and we will fight them all the way. Our members are adamant, our power assets and jobs are ‘Not4Sale’. Not now, not ever.”
