NZ agricultural science suffers as 83 science roles set to go at AgResearch
Source: PSA
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The Public Service Association (PSA) says the New Zealand economy will lose out as AgResearch proposes cutting 83
science roles in yet another restructure.
The PSA has nearly 350 members working at AgResearch sites across the country.
Erin Polaczuk, PSA national secretary, said "AgResearch should be driving innovation for the New Zealand economy, but
instead they face shrinking capacity and budgets,"
"83 skilled science roles are proposed to go, and these people will struggle to find quality jobs elsewhere in New
Zealand.
"Ultimately many scientists and technicians will be forced to look overseas, meaning their skills and knowledge will be
lost to New Zealand.
"The PSA will be submitting strongly on these proposals on behalf of our members, many of whom will also engage
personally before the end date of 9 October.
"The Government must be held to account for the repeated shrinking of our crown research institutes, and AgResearch in
particular.
"The loss of well-paying skilled science jobs in the regions will particularly hurt, as people are forced to leave for
the big centres or overseas.
"We will be working with our members to make sure they are treated fairly through this process," said Erin Polaczuk.
ENDS