The Greens welcome news the State and Federal Governments have stepped in to support Liberty Bell Bay workers while the smelter is sold. The Greens have consistently called for government to provide workers with the certainty they need until operations at the smelter return to normal.
Workers, their families and the local community have endured months of uncertainty over the future of the Liberty Bell Bay smelter. The most recent threat of being stood down without pay or having to forfeit their position has been especially concerning for workers.
The Greens have been calling for the State and Federal Governments to provide the wage support needed. This week, I wrote to both governments urging them to provide financial support for workers and their families.
The Federal Government stepped in to support workers at the Whyalla steelworks, and it is only fair they support Tasmanian workers too. Workers at Bell Bay deserve this certainty while the sale process continues.
It’s a relief the workers now have the certainty they need to move forward. We hope administrators will be able to achieve a quick sale of the facility, so workers can return to normal as soon as possible.
