Wednesday 15 February 2012

Over 3,500 Central Queensland coalmine workers begin a seven-day strike at midday today to uphold safety and working conditions in the booming mining industry, said the CFMEU Miners Union.

The workers from seven BHP-operated mines across the Bowen Basin are striking after trying to negotiate a new workplace deal for 15 months.

BHP is expanding its Central Queensland operations off the back of record profits, while trying to drive down conditions for local workers, said CFMEU National President Tony Maher.

"BHP, one of the richest companies in the world, wants to make Australian mining jobs less safe and less secure," said Mr Maher.

"This one-off mining boom is delivering record profits to mining companies like BHP. It should also be delivering better jobs for Australians.

“Instead, BHP is playing hardball in workplace negotiations in the Bowen Basin because it wants lower standards across the mining industry.

"BHP’s Bowen Basin workforce is highly productive, generating $6 million profit a day to BHP,” said Mr Maher.

"Last year, BHP made a record $23 billion profit. These workers are taking a stand for safe, secure jobs - BHP can afford to do the right thing.”

The mines affected by strike action this week are: Goonyella Riverside, Peak Downs, Saraji, Norwich Park, Gregory, Crinum and Blackwater.

When operating normally, these mines together produce up to one million tonnes of coking coal a week.

The striking mineworkers will return to work on Wednesday February 22.

Available for interview:
CFMEU President Tony Maher – Sydney
CFMEU Miners General Secretary Andrew Vickers – Brisbane
CFMEU Miners Queensland District President Stephen Smyth – Mackay 

For more information or to arrange interviews: Jackie Woods 0414 241 483 / Martin Watters 0400 179 620

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