The AMWU has called on the Federal Government to commit specific investment for manufacturing development in communities that rely on greenhouse intensive industry before an Emissions Trading Scheme begins.

Federal Innovation, Industry, Science and Research Minister Kim Carr addressed the AMWU national conference and heard from delegates and officials in Newcastle today following the release of an AMWU position paper on climate change yesterday.

AMWU National Secretary Dave Oliver welcomed Minister Carr’s address and assurance that the regions like the Hunter would not be left behind and that Government policy recognizes the importance of intervention.

“The Federal Government must ensure there is direct investment in communities that may be affected by moves to reduce greenhouse emissions to stimulate job creation in less carbon intensive industry,” said Mr. Oliver.

“We welcomed the Government’s $500 million green car fund which will stimulate research and development in hybrid and fuel efficient vehicles.

“But more is needed otherwise workers will end up bearing the brunt of the shift to a more environmentally sustainable economy.

“We need an ambitious mandatory renewable energy target, and a major proportion of revenue generated by a national emissions trading scheme must be directed into development of new renewable energy and sustainable manufacturing projects.”

“If we leave things only to market mechanisms we know workers will suffer and Australia will miss the opportunity to refresh our manufacturing sector.”