Government throws away job guarantees for Leeton electricity workers
By Ben Kruse
USU General Secretary
Oct 29, 2009
Up to 30 jobs at the Leeton Country Energy call centre are at risk under the NSW Government's revised plan to privatise the State's electricity sector. United Services Union (USU) representatives will visit Leeton electricity retail workers today to discuss the State Government's plans.
"The NSW Government are not only selling off the family silverware, they are selling out electricity workers in regional NSW," said USU Energy Organiser Natalie Falvey.
"Last year the Premier produced the 'Rees Plan for Electricity Reform,' which included an employment guarantee for electricity sector workers.
"That promise has now been thrown out the window.
"The USU is particularly concerned for workers at the Leeton call centre and the impact on the town if the Government does not come through on the promises made in the Rees Plan.
"Electricity workers demand the Government sticks to its promise and gives a rock-solid guarantee that workers' jobs will be protected in the sale of electricity assets."
Ms Falvey said Country Energy employs around 30 people in the Leeton call centre.
"Regional communities are already doing it tough with the fall-out from the global recession.
"Leeton cannot afford to lose these jobs," Ms Falvey said.
The USU has issued a challenge to Murrumbidgee MP Adrian Piccoli, to stick up for his local community and fight for local jobs.
"The pressure is on Adrian Piccoli to stand up for his constituents and stand up for the jobs of electricity sector workers."
ATTENTION ALL EDITORS / CHIEFS OF STAFF: The USU will visit Leeton call centre today at 11am (19 Pine Ave, Leeton).
For more information please call: Natalie Falvey, 0418 762 127 or Scott McNamara, 0417 217 785 Claire Johnston, 0434 489 533
