CONCERN FOR NYLEX FAMILIES
June 24, 2009
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said he was bitterly disappointed to learn of the closure of Sale’s Nylex factory and was seeking support measures for affected workers and their families.
Mr Chester said he had contacted Nylex earlier this year when rumours of the closure first surfaced to offer his full support in an attempt to retain the factory.
“Like many people in the region, I was shocked and bitterly disappointed when I heard that the decision had been made to close the Sale factory of Nylex,” Mr Chester said.
“About 40 staff will be out of work as a result of the closure, including some workers who have decades of experience at the Sale factory.
“Naturally, I am concerned for their families and their future. I have made representations to both the State and Federal Governments seeking support for these staff, in terms of re-training and making sure they can access their full redundancy entitlements.
“I have also written to the major banks seeking sympathetic consideration for all Nylex staff who may find it difficult to meet mortgage repayments and other commitments in the immediate future.”
Mr Chester said Nylex had a long-standing history in the Sale community and its contribution as a major employer would be sorely missed.
“I will continue to work with the local Council and my State Parliamentary colleagues to help secure new industry and new job opportunities for the Sale community,” Mr Chester said.
“It is always hard to replace such a significant employer in any regional community, but I have approached State and Federal Government regional development ministers seeking their advice and guidance as to how we can best reduce the long-term impacts of this announcement.
“In terms of direct local action, I will continue to encourage the community to shop locally and support local traders to help create jobs in our region.”
Mr Chester will distribute 70,000 brochures in the next week, promoting a ‘putting locals first’ message to support jobs in small businesses and the tourism industry across Gippsland.