Union hopes new buyer could rescue Whakatane Mill jobs
Unions say a new buyer could find a use for machinery at the Whakatane Mill, saving both an important asset and jobs. The owner of the Bay of Plenty-based mill confirmed yesterday that it will cease production on 21 June and is expected to close by the end of that month. The First Union and E tū say more than 150 skilled workers face redundancy - but the plant could be used by the forestry supply industry. First Union spokesperson Jared Abbott spoke to Susie Ferguson.