Concerns raised as machine failure leads to Griffin Coal lay-offs
Griffin Coal has attributed the loss of 20 jobs at its Collie mine to the unplanned failure of one of its main excavators.
A spokesman for the company said it acknowledged the contributions of the employees both towards cost reductions and productivity gains.
“The challenge remains with the current revenue model, which is impacting the sustainability of the business,” he said.
“Discussions continue with Griffin’s clients in order to address this issue and ensure the business is viable. This will provide the company with funding to invest in machinery and the mine consequently leading to reinstatement of jobs for the community.”
CFMEU Mining and Energy State secretary Greg Busson has called for clearer communication after he claimed meetings were only held with two out of four impacted shifts.
He said a meeting was held a fortnight before letters were sent out last week to tell the 20 workers they would no longer be employed.
“I sent a letter on the June 8 requesting they consult with their workforce better and asked for a meeting to be briefed,” he said.
“To this stage I have not received a reply from the company.
“They will say the people they put off are labour hire and that because of that there is no need to consult, but in our opinion its a major change as its a reduction in real numbers.”
Mr Busson said he had further concerns regarding the viability of the mine going forward.
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