CFMEU calls on Vale: lay the cards on table!

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image credit: freedigitalphotos By: Stoonn

Australia’s Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) wants an immediate and honest response from mining giant Vale regarding its announced plans for Glennies Creek and Camberwell mines, in Hunter Valley, NSW, following Friday’s announcement by Integra, a subsidiary of Vale, that the mines would cease coal production.

image credit: freedigitalphotos By: Stoonn
image credit: freedigitalphotos By: Stoonn

“Vale announces that it is taking the necessary steps to place its Integra Mine Complex in Australia into care and maintenance, as the operation is not economically feasible under current market conditions. The decision was unanimously agreed by the Joint Venture partners of the Integra Coal mine. The decision is consistent with Vale’s strategy to focus on discipline in capital allocation and maximising value for its shareholders,” said Vale in a statement.

The company told the employees that although operations would be shut down, facilities would be maintained, pointing the finger at coal prices as the main culprit for this outcome.

According to the news release by the CFMEU, the 500 lost jobs put the whole Singleton community at risk.

“Workers are angry and upset about losing their jobs. But people are also looking for clarity about whether Vale intends to resume production at the mines in the foreseeable future and under what circumstances,” said CFMEU Northern Mining and NSW Energy District President Peter Jordan.

Adertisement

“When big mining companies like Vale stop and start production they are playing with the livelihoods of mineworkers, their families and communities. People deserve a full explanation of Vale’s intentions.”

A meeting between the CFMEU and the company is scheduled for today. Workers were told they would receive formal notice about their futures on Friday.

“We will be seeking guarantees that if production is resumed at Glennies Creek and Camberwell after a period of care and maintenance, current employees are given first option on jobs,” said Mr Jordan.

“Vale must not be allowed to use a break in production to replace a local, permanent workforce with a casualised, commuting workforce.”