Joyce must keep to his 'absolute priority'

West Coast Tasman MP Damien O’Connor today sought assurances from Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce that preserving jobs is the objective of negotiations between miners and Solid Energy.

“Miners have expressed concerns that the process is about putting the mine into care and maintenance rather than developing it for coal production that would enable miners to continue working.

“However, given Mr Joyce said it was ‘an absolute priority’ to work with Solid Energy to make Spring Creek financially successful , we will take him at his word and encourage the National Government to support and fund a feasible mine plan that Solid Energy managers and employees are currently working on creating.

“There can be no follow up ‘buts’ from Mr Joyce after his commitment today. The continuation of this mine is vital to the Grey District and we must do everything possible to ensure its on-going operation.” said Damien O’Connor.