RAM - Residents Action Movement
Media release 17 April 2008

NZ jobs must come before free trade

"It is obvious that free trade is devastating New Zealand's manufacturing sector and its jobs," said Oliver Woods, co-organiser of RAM - Residents Action Movement.

"The latest casualties have come with Fisher & Paykel's decision to close its plant in Dunedin as a consequence of New Zealand's free trade deals with China and Thailand. The corporation will relocate the work overseas to low-wage economies that return higher profits to an already-profitable business that made $61 million after tax last year. "

"The NZ government signs a free trade deal with the dictatorial Chinese regime and then stands idly by as Kiwi families struggle with job losses and rising food prices. Meanwhile hardworking taxpayers fund cabinet ministers going on cocktail-fueled free trade missionary expeditions to distant capitals. There is something wrong with this picture!" said Mr Woods.

"Workers are caught between the big corporations like Fisher & Paykel who put greater profits before job security, and the big political parties like Labour and National that worship at the altar of free trade, the almighty dollar and radical free market economics. Fisher & Paykel's behaviour is an indicment on the corporate politics of this country!"

"RAM stands with the workers who are going to lose their jobs in Dunedin, and their families and their community who are going to suffer with them New Zealand must put people before profit, and allow workers the dignity of stable, well-paid jobs," said Mr Woods.

ENDS

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