Kiwi Jobs Bill Will Stem Loss Of Manufacturing

Kiwi Jobs Bill Will Help Stem Loss Of Manufacturing

The Rail and Maritime Transport Union (RMTU) says stronger local procurement requirements are needed to stop more manufacturing work going overseas, and the union is supporting Clare Curran’s Bill to help achieve this.

“KiwiRail’s recent decision to not bid for the $500 million contract for Auckland’s new trains demonstrates the need for a much stronger signal from government to their departments and other entities to maximise local procurement,” said Wayne Butson, RMTU General Secretary.

“Our economy needs to serve Kiwi jobs, and we need to move away from the restrictive, narrow definition of ‘value for money’ that is currently used when government entities tender for work.”

“Value for money is not just purchase price. It is also about the primary and secondary jobs that are created, the industries that are supported and the contribution to reducing our balance of payments deficit that can be made.”

“Rail workers want strong local procurement requirements right away,” Wayne Butson said.

“Without them we will see more decisions like the KiwiRail one, with all the lost opportunities in terms of jobs, industry development and export potential that that involves.”

“Clare Curran’s Bill deserves the full support of Parliament to help make this happen,” Wayne Butson said.

ENDS

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