Concerns over actions of ACL directors

NICK McKIM, Greens leader
The Tasmanian Greens today expressed deep concern over revelations that two former Directors of ACL Bearings received redundancy payouts totalling more than $600, 000 at a time when workers are reducing work hours in an effort to keep the company afloat.

Greens Leader Nick McKim MP said that to the credit of the ACL workforce, workers have agreed to reduce work hours to four days a week in an attempt to retain jobs while the company went through tough times, but their generosity of spirit has not been respected.

“ACL’s workers have made plenty of sacrifices for the good of the company and their mates, and there is an overwhelming argument that Directors should show similar restraint.”

“Whether or not these payments were required under contractual arrangements, the Directors should reconsider accepting these massive payouts.”

“Reports that the company has failed to put aside money to cover employees’ severance pay are also deeply disturbing.”

“Workers across both the private and public sectors are helping their organisations weather the economic crisis by adopting flexible work hours, often with a reduction in pay, and surely Directors should also be prepared to make similar sacrifices.”