The Mayor of Wollondilly and local MPs, state and federal, have come out in support of coal miners affected by the temporary closure of Tahmoor Colliery.
Almost 500 miners have been stood down with pay, for four weeks, while the owners sort out financial issues that affect the parent company, GFG Alliance.
Shadow treasurer Angus Taylor issued a statement saying this is “an incredibly difficult time for the hundreds of workers and their families affected by the situation at Tahmoor Colliery.
“The mine is a major employer in the local area and supports many businesses and community groups,’’ he said.
“I’ve long been a strong supporter of the mine through previous ownership changes and planning issues and will continue to do so during this challenging period.
“I’ve been in touch with the Colliery’s owner and General Manager and will stay in contact as the situation develops.
“It’s critical GFG Alliance finds a way to keep jobs in the area,’’ Mr Taylor said.
Mayor of Wollondilly Matt Gould and state MP Judy Hannan issued a joint statement of support for the affected miners and their families.
Ms Hannan said she had written to NSW Premier Chris Minns.
“Despite the transition away from coal as a power source, coking coal is still required for steel,’’ Ms Hannan said.
“The mine at Tahmoor is of a rich type of coal and is used for the creation of steel, necessary for building works across Australia.”
“My concern is for the workers locally that this mine employed well before GFG Alliance purchased the operation.
“While GFG Alliance is a private entity, the issue involves the government as the licences and operations that are used for the Tahmoor colliery are now at risk.
“I have sought assurance from the government to ensure a transition to a new company will keep the local workers engaged.
“If workers have direct concerns please contact my office and my staff are ready to assist with any issues,’’ said the member for Wollondilly.
Mayor of Wollondilly Matt Gould said that Tahmoor colliery was a major local employer.
“Our thoughts are with the employees and their families employed both directly and indirectly by the mine who are feeling uncertain about what the future may look like,’’ he said.
“Our first priority is the people of Wollondilly, and council is working closely with our local member to ensure we are doing everything we can to make sure those impacted and our broader community are supported at this time.
“We are also reassured to hear that the State Government is stepping in to work on resolving this unfortunate situation to ensure the financial sustainability of the mine and to make sure no local jobs are lost and we thank them for taking action to support our community.”
