Ongoing negotiations over Ajax and concerns over the fate of 10,000 automotive workers
Maria stated today:
“As it stands, the fate of up to 10,000 automotive industry jobs depends on the success of current negotiations aimed at averting the closure of the car component manufacturer Ajax Engineers Fasteners.”
“Should these negotiations stall or fail, Ford has warned that it will be forced to lay off up to 4000 workers from its Broadmeadows plant, located in my own electorate of Calwell, and its Geelong plant. This could start happening as soon as this Thursday.”
“The prospect of these job losses is deeply troubling. Their impact will be devastating both for the workers and their families directly affected by the stand downs, and for the local community as well.”
“The costs will be enormous to both the local economy, as well as Australia’s automotive industry.”
“Negotiations to finalize a rescue package for Ajax must be successful. There is simply no other choice, no other option if thousands of automotive workers are to retain their jobs. The federal government needs to do a whole lot more than it has so far to make sure that Ajax is in a position to continue producing car components that are essential for production at Ford, Holden and Toyota.”
“The automotive industry is already under significant pressure. Industrial and manufacturing jobs have been a significant loser under the Howard Government. Job security has virtually become a thing of the past, something that we are witnessing today with the crisis facing Victoria’s automotive industry.”
“On this occasion, the federal government needs to do more than just monitor the situation. It needs to be proactive in ensuring than a viable solution to Ajax’s financial difficulties is found. It’s inconceivable that Ajax should be allowed to go under, taking with it 10,000 local jobs.”
Media Contact: Alex Kouttab 0417 541 465
