BY JESSICA ROUSE
The blows keep on coming for Dartbrook Mine in the Upper Hunter with more than 100 workers shown the door this week.
The receivers, FTI Consulting, who are currently operating the mine terminated more than two-thirds of the workforce on Monday. They released a statement to say it wasn’t an easy call to make, but it was necessary.
“A number of redundancies have been made to match the operational requirements of the Dartbrook Coal Mine. While this wasn’t an easy decision, it was necessary to ensure that operations at Dartbrook continue and are placed onto a sustainable financial footing.”
MEU Northern Mining and NSW Energy President Robin Williams said the shock decision has come just days after the receivers assured them that operations would continue as normal.
“We were suddenly told last week that over 100 jobs – nearly two-thirds of the workforce – would be slashed. These include over two-thirds of Dartbrook’s EA workers, who have been sacked while FTI still retains labour hire contractors at the site.
“Over the weekend, operations were wound down while workers were left in the dark, waiting to hear if they would be required,” he said.
“Many of them have now been unceremoniously notified by email that they no longer have a job.
“This situation has been handled disgracefully. Workers not only facing unemployment, but they’ve also been told their redundancy entitlements will not be honoured.”
“This kind of dodgy corporate behaviour is unacceptable. It’s hurting families and the local community.”
Robin said the dispute is currently before the Fair Work Commission.
The Dartbrook Board released a statement last week to say they were “disappointed” to see the operation head in this direction.
“Dartbrook Management would like to recognise the hard work and tireless efforts that the entire workforce and management team have made to make the re-opening of the Dartbrook mine the success that it has been to date.
“This action on behalf of the Operating Group to appoint Administrators is in no way a reflection of the efforts or outcomes achieved by this team.
“It is our view that over time the Dartbrook mine will be a resounding success.”
More to come.
