Springborg plan puts power workers’ jobs at risk

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said thousands of jobs would be at risk if the Leader of the Opposition went ahead with plans to sell government-owned energy assets.

Minister Wilson said the Leader of the Opposition had flagged the sale of government-owned corporations such as Energex, Ergon Energy and Powerlink as one of his ‘economic objectives’.

“We’re in the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. Queensland workers are understandably nervous about job security and their future,” he said.

“And along comes the Leader of the Opposition with a wish list that includes flogging off government-owned energy companies.

“It’s reckless, irresponsible policy-on-the-run and a cruel blow to power workers worried about their future,” Mr Wilson said.

Minister Wilson said the jobs of thousands of workers would be at risk if the Leader of the Opposition went ahead with his flagged privatisation plan.

All up, there are around 7,000 employees working for Ergon Energy and Energex alone.

“What about Ergon workers in the north who are out there in bad weather right now, making sure the power supply to the flood-bound region is safe and secure.

“I challenge Mr Springborg to look those workers in the eye and tell them their jobs will be safe when he sells Ergon Energy to the highest bidder,” Mr Wilson said.

Quote from LNP economic policy document:

“An LNP government would not oppose privatisation of public assets…”

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819