“This tax is good for the country. It’s about time we got a better share. But it should go further. The biggest shortcoming in the tax is that it should divert some of the revenue back to the mining communities that create the wealth”, said Tony Maher National President CFMEU Mining and Energy.
The union wants to see a social infrastructure fund for regions like the Hunter.
“Mining companies like Xstrata are running a contrived scare campaign, targeting vulnerable low paid workers. They’re nothing but a corporate bully. They can go after the Government, but to spruik lies and frighten low paid workers is gutter behaviour.
“Xstrata’s suspension of the pre-feasibility study for Wandoan doesn’t amount to much. It’s just playing politics. What ever happens they will just blame the tax, and we condemn them for it. Mine workers have an obligation to expose the lies Xstrata is spreading about the industry.
“Workers in the industry recognise that major investments aren’t going anywhere for a very long time. Mining super projects will continue to deliver billions in profits for these companies.
“Our members want to send the nation a message that they support the idea of mining companies giving more of the super profits they make from our natural assets put back into communities.
“We have watched as mining communities have grown at an unsustainable pace and see every day for significant investment in roads, hospitals, community infrastructure so their communities can work,” said Mr Maher.
The resolution voted on by the union membership:
- condemns mining companies for misleading complaints and threats on their industry, singling out Xstrata for its blatant and misleading lies;
- calls on the Rudd Government to ensure that a significant dividend from the RSPT is returned to mining regions;
- and demands a community advisory process is established to put forward claims on the use of the funds.
The Hunter region is the first vote on endorsing the campaign from grassroots mine workers, meetings are planned throughout NSW, Queensland and WA.
Spokesperson Tony Maher 0418 286 735 or Gemma Swart (EMC) on 0414 873 291
