Sanford Closure – Workers Must Come First
The union representing workers at the Sanford mussel processing facility in Christchurch is extremely disappointed to
learn that a restructuring could see the closure of the facility and hundreds of people out of a job.
Chas Muir from the Service and Food Workers Union Nga Ringa Tota said Sanford called a staff meeting today to announce
the probable closure of the processing facility, threatening the livelihoods of 232 employees.
“These Christchurch workers have been through enough insecurity in the past four years and are devastated at the thought
of losing their jobs. In some instances both the husband and wife work at Sanford’s so if the site does close their
total family income is set to go,” he said. “This is news is very sad for the workers and their families, and very
worrying for the wider community in Christchurch.”
National Secretary John Ryall said that the closure was predictable when the government is doing little to help our
export markets.
“Aquaculture is supposedly the world’s fastest growing primary industry. Jobs should be growing with it,” he said.
“We’ve now reached parity with the Australian dollar. Our overvalued dollar is causing significant problems for all
exporters, and the fisheries industry is struggling as much as everyone else.”
“We’ll be fighting the proposed restructuring tooth and nail to save the jobs of our members at the facility, and to
ensure the best outcome for all employees,” he said.
ends