Flying squad dispatched to help mine workers in Townsville

The State Government has mobilised the state's new Rapid Response Team in Townsville to help find jobs for the State's displaced mine workers.

Regional Development and Industry Minister Desley Boyle said the team would set up in Townsville on Thursday 15 January 2009 offering support and assistance to workers affected by recent retrenchments in the mining industry.

Representatives were in Emerald and Mackay last week following Rio Tinto's decision to cut 50 contractor jobs from its Kestrel Mine.

"There is no doubt that Queensland is feeling the effects of a global economic crisis but I am determined that as a Government we will protect Queenslanders' jobs wherever possible," Ms Boyle said.

"We need to hit the ground running and that means getting these retrenched workers back into the workforce as soon as possible.

"The announcement from Rio Tinto confirms what we already knew – the global financial crisis is hurting Queensland.

"That is why the Government is committed to keeping the motor running in the economy by pressing ahead with our $17 billion capital works plan for 2009.

"The loss of 50 jobs in a community like Emerald could have a massive impact on families if we don't act quickly.

"The Bligh Government will support those families in any way we can."

In December the Government brought forward $25 million in funds to boost employment in regional areas affected by the mining downturn caused by the global economic crisis.

The accelerated funding, from the Sustainable Resource Communities $100 million support package, was originally allocated for the 2009-10 financial year and will be earmarked for regional capital projects that provide maximum employment.

Ms Boyle said the Rapid Response Team would be overseen by government, industry and unions.

"One of the key roles of the team will be to help workers identify their skills – to help them explore other opportunities in other industries and get them working again," she said.

"The team will also give workers information about available assistance to make the transition to new employment."

The Rapid Response Team will set up in Townsville at the Department of Tourism, Regional Development and Industry Regional Centre, Floor 1, Enterprise House Corner The Strand & Sir Leslie Thiess Drive, Townsville QLD 4810 on Thursday 15 January 2009.

Workers assistance line: Freecall 1800 035 749.

14 January 2009

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