VISY’S ATTACK ON LABOR PROVES CARBON TAX A THREAT TO LOCAL JOBS
20-April-2011
Locally based cardboard manufacturer Visy, this week claimed that Labor’s carbon tax will ‘crimp further investment in paper recycling’, ‘contract margins in existing paper re-manufacturing facilities’, and threaten further expansion of their recycling program[1].
In what would appear to be a self defeating exercise, Labor’s Carbon Tax will penalise Visy for recycling, by taxing emissions that are generated through the recycle process.
Visy’s now states that under current conditions, they would not expand their recycling program.
Sophie Mirabella MP, Federal Member for Indi says this is a clear sign that the Carbon Tax is a direct threat to local jobs.
“Visy have 3 separate operations in Wodonga, and employ a lot of local people. The statements by Visy this week are a clear sign that Ms Gillard’s carbon tax is a real threat to jobs,” Mrs Mirabella said.
“In recent weeks, I have held meetings with Manufacturers from across Wodonga, including representatives from Visy and the message was clear, times are tough. These companies are already struggling with a high Aussie dollar and their margins are stretched to the limit. Another new tax could break the back of these companies and that means local jobs will go.
“This tax isn’t just a threat to mining jobs in QLD and WA, there is a clear and present danger to local jobs here in North East Victoria.
“Ms Gillard has backed herself into a corner with this ridiculous tax. It’s time she listened to manufacturers like Visy rather than criticising them every time they disagree with her,” Mrs Mirabella concluded.
[1] http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/climate/bhp-billitons-48bn-iron-expansion-defies-carbon-tax-uncertainty/story-e6frg6xf-1226041684974