Workforce at Ergon in dark on job future
ERGON Energy staff members are still in the dark on whether their jobs will be slashed over the next few months, or if they're safe from the State Government's axe.
Electrical Trades Union state assistant secretary Keith McKenzie said the union was seeking answers, and wanted them now.
"They start talking about cuts and yet nobody knows where they will come from," Mr McKenzie said.
"Our regional organisers in various regions are trying to sit down (with Ergon) and find out what is going on."
Mr McKenzie said with Christmas around the corner, workers feared job security around the high-expenditure months.
"It looks a bit grim for Christmas because staff are wanting to put money away for holidays and they're not sure if they can," Mr McKenzie said.
State organiser Dan McGaw said the union was not mincing words in its message to the officeholders.
With 500 Ergon staff on the chopping block statewide, Mr McGaw said, the community should prepare for an understaffed season of severe weather.
A spokesman for Ergon Energy said people needn't worry about a lack of services.
"We don't believe it will impact on our ability to service customers and respond in times of disaster. As in recent natural disasters personnel were brought in from across the state to assist with the restoration effort," the spokesman said.
Those potentially in the firing line included employees, labour hire and contractors.
"We have to make some difficult decisions to ensure we are a prudent and efficient business that delivers affordable electricity to customers," he said.
In Warwick, there are a total of 27 staff members with about 20 crew members, a few apprentices and a few in administration, design and other roles.
