The National Distribution Union has declared a state of emergency in New Zealand manufacturing as another sixty-six workers face the loss of their jobs and livelihoods.

Fletcher Building’s announced its proposal to close the Penrose hardboard and softboard plant this morning, blaming the high dollar and environmental regulations.

The workers are represented by the NDU.

NDU National Secretary Laila Harré said that the Government must take urgent action to stop the loss of manufacturing jobs in New Zealand.

“The state of manufacturing in New Zealand is such a critical state that even added value jobs using raw materials have become unsustainable,” she said. “We challenge the Government and Fletchers Building to come up with a secure package to rescue the workers jobs.”

Harré says that company “consultation process” only give workers and the union two working days to come up with a solution.

“It’s a sick day when a New Zealand owned company’s shares go up with the announcement of a proposed local closure,” she said.

ENDS

CONTACT

NDU National Secretary Laila Harré on 021 839 661

Workers from the site are available for contact through NDU Media Liaison Simon Oosterman on 021 922 551