83 science roles set to go at AgResearch

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

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