Government delivers certainty for Otaki workers

8 May 2006

Otaki Labour MP Darren Hughes says he is thrilled with the Government’s confirmation of Taskforce Green funding for workers at Pacific Plastic Recyclers. The Otaki company suffered a considerable setback in January when an arson attack saw its factory burnt to the ground.

“Right from the outset I have wanted security for these workers and that’s why I approached the Government to see if we could develop a positive solution to avoid large scale redundancies. That’s the commitment I made to them in January, and so I’m delighted with the Government’s response as confirmed today.”

The local MP acknowledged the understanding ear that Social Development and Employment Minister David Benson-Pope had given to the issue when Mr Hughes arranged a Beehive meeting in February.

“Although this funding is not normally available to commercial operations, we made a special case to David Benson-Pope based on his dual responsibilities as employment and environment minister.”

Mr Hughes said he believed the community would also welcome the announcement.

“I know how important these jobs are, not just for the individual workers but also for the people of Otaki. The recycling work this business does is good for New Zealand, and the employment opportunities that they have given many locals is good for our community.

“Today brings certainty and that’s good news for the people of Otaki.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media