STATEMENT ON JOB LOSSES AT FAIRFAX REGIONAL MEDIA
THE HON GREG COMBET AM MP
Federal Member for Charlton
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
Minister for Industry and Innovation
I support workers at the Newcastle Herald, and its affiliates, in their protest against Fairfax Regional Media’s decision to shift editorial production jobs offshore.
The Newcastle Herald, along with The Lakes Mail and The Newcastle Star, tells the stories that matter to people in the Hunter and Lake Macquarie.
It is no secret that Fairfax newspapers are struggling with commercial pressures. But in regional centres like Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, which have an incredibly strong sense of community, the paper has always been driven by local people, for local people. It should stay this way. Editors in New Zealand will not know what’s important in Newcastle.
As a former leader of the ACTU I understand the difficulties of structural change, but the way in which Fairfax Regional Media has responded to commercial pressures is regrettable.
I extend my full support to each and every local worker who is now dealing with the devastating news that their job will be lost.
I know the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance will pursue the best outcome for it’s members and I encourage Fairfax Regional Media to negotiate in good faith for the best outcome for these workers.
31 May 2012