MEDIA RELEASE

February 17 2009

Council to meet with company and community over Wellsford job losses

Rodney District Council mayor Penny Webster has called for a meeting between the council, the Rodney Economic Development Trust and Wellsford-based Izard Irwin to discuss that company’s recent announcement of plans to lay off workers.

“Izard’s is Wellsford biggest employer and any job losses are a major concern to both the community and council,” Mrs Webster says.

“As a council, we are particularly frustrated that attempts to encourage more commercial development in Wellsford have been blocked by Transit – now NZ Transport Agency – regulations refusing to allow development alongside state highways.”

Mrs Webster admits to being annoyed that the actions of a Government body are costing potential jobs in Rodney.

“Council had the vision to buy this land for commercial development some years ago. But to have NZTA preventing any kind of development, which could provide much needed jobs and security to Wellsford, is totally unacceptable,” she added.

“I trust the Government – in its efforts to help New Zealanders ride out the current world recession – will look into the actions of NZTA and other state bodies and remove such obstacles to growth in our regions.”

Council hopes to meet with the RDET and Izard for a briefing on the issue as soon as possible.

ENDS

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