Ten redundancies amongst researchers at the country's leading horticulture and food research institute, HortResearch -
announced today - underline the Government's complete lack of commitment to developing a knowledge-based economy,' says
PSA organiser Malcolm Blair.
Redundant staff include experienced scientists, technologists, technicians, business mangers and support staff with
long-standing links in the food industry.
The affected science group is fully-funded through government and industry research contracts. Senior management say
staff performance was not an issue in the decision to make staff redundant.
HortResearch staff are involved in cutting-edge research aimed at adding value to New Zealand food products.
The job losses at HortResearch follow a similar decision last month to cut jobs at another science research institute -
Forest Research.
'Staff are shocked and perplexed by HortResearch management's decision,' says Blair. 'The government recently announced
that this area of innovation is a high priority. They said they wanted to see the establishment of wealth-creating
industries and the generation of 'health for all'.
But this latest move proves the government has no commitment to New Zealand's future. It sends a clear message that the
government's proclaimed commitment to science and research is just hollow words. They couldn't care less,' he said.