Nyrstar to cut jobs from Port Pirie smelter
NYRSTAR will axe 100 jobs from its Port Pirie smelter as part of the company’s move towards full-time operations at its new $660 million plant.
NYRSTAR will axe 100 jobs from its Port Pirie smelter as part of the company’s move towards full-time operations following its recent $660 million redevelopment.
It is understood the jobs are a mix of contract and short-term tenures needed to backfill permanent employees upskilling at the new metals processing plant.
The upgraded smelter operation – which was underwritten by the State Government by $291 million – opened in January and has been working in conjunction with an old sinter plant, which is due to be decommissioned.
The key aspects of the Port Pirie Redevelopment included the replacement of the existing sinter plant with an oxygen-enriched bath smelting furnace - improving the air quality in the area. An existing sulphuric acid plant was also replaced with one that has greater capacity and upgraded technology.
Local independent MP and ex-smelter employee Geoff Brock said Nyrstar had given him assurances there would be no job losses until the company met with the unions.
“The general manager has assured me there will be no loss of jobs until discussions with the union on how to move forward with least disruption to people on-site,” Mr Brock said.
“He’s made it quite clear to me the contractors and short-term employed were there until such time the new plant was up and running.
“Some of those positions may be vacant now.”
Mr Brock, who spearheaded the previous State Government’s backing of the smelter, said he would work with all parties to achieve the best outcome for staff.
“We always knew when two plants were operating we’d need to bring more people in to operate the old plant, and when the new plant was operating there would be a slight loss of regional workforce,” he said.
“I want to make certain we work through this and the plant is there for the long-term.
“This plant gives us the opportunity to value-add and treat other materials not being treated anywhere else in Australia at the moment.”
Nyrstar, a Belgian-based company, employs about 700 people at the lead and zinc smelter.
Port Pirie Council chief executive Peter Ackland said council staff were yet to speak with Nyrstar about the issue.
“Because Nyrstar is a major employer, any news is obviously going to have an affect on the community,” Mr Ackland said.
“Reports of job losses is of very serious concern, particularly for those who might be affected.
“Media reports this morning have stated there will be no job losses until they have discussions with the union.
“That gives us confidence that there’s still discussions to be done, which is good.”
Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union organiser Bill Mitropoulos said they had a meeting with Nyrstar next week to discuss proposed changes to the business, but it was cancelled with no explanation.
“They flagged to us before that there may be some restructuring happening,” Mr Mitropoulos said.
Nyrstar and the Australian Workers’ Union have been contact for comment.