Yesterday’s announcement that Paperlinx intends to close its Tasmanian paper mills will devastate up to 580 families and the communities right across the North West Coast.

Union representatives met with the company last Friday but no indication was given that the closure was imminent. Now the company has decided to announce this to employees without the support of their representatives.

AMWU State Secretary Anne Urquhart said that the company’s behaviour in not advising of this closure on Friday whilst meeting with unions was disgraceful.

“The impact of this closure will be widely felt, not just in terms of direct jobs, but contractors, and other providers,” Ms Urquhart said.

“Making this decision so close to Christmas is going to make things very difficult for workers and their families,” said Ms Urquhart.

The AMWU is calling on Federal and State governments to consider initiatives to ensure that Tasmania’s manufacturing sector is supported through this difficult time, by maintaining stimulus packages and investing in opportunities for highly skilled jobs.

Tasmanian Premier, David Bartlett, said in a statement:

"I commit the Government to standing by the north west community throughout this challenge

"We are already working closely with the federal government on a joint response to help offset the impact of this decision."

Premier Bartlett also welcomed the company's committment to meet all entitlements owed to the workers.

The AMWU will work to ensure that this promise is delivered.