The MOU signed today signals the intent of unions and DCNS Australia to work together to ensure that the Future Submarines project will not only produce the best possible product for the Australian Navy, but will also revitalise manufacturing industry and safeguard jobs for the future.
DCNS makes clear in the MOU that they see a role for unions in their workplaces and understand the importance of union delegates and officials being able to do their work without being subjected to harassment, discrimination or obstruction.
The MOU also establishes a Workplace Council, to be comprised of representatives from the ACTU, DCNS and the shipbuilding unions – the AMWU, AWU, ETU and Professionals Australia. This council will act as a overarching forum for consultation between the various unions and DCNS.
Quotes attributable to ACTU Secretary Sally McManus:
“The ACTU hopes that this agreement signals the start of a constructive relationship between DCNS and the shipbuilding unions.”
“This project has huge potential to create jobs and build capacity in the shipbuilding industry.”
Quotes attributable to AMWU Assistant National Secretary Glenn Thompson:
“This MOU is another milestone in our campaign for an Australian shipbuilding industry that delivers good jobs and meets Australia’s future needs. Thousands of shipbuilding workers have campaigned to secure the future of this industry.”
“We look forward to working with DCNS to build a workforce has the skills to deliver this critical project.”
Quotes attributable to CEPU assistant national secretary Michael Wright:
“Today’s MOU represents the beginning of a productive partnership between working people and a major employer in the defence construction industry.”
“It is evidence for all industry participants in the manufacturing, construction and infrastructure sectors that a co-operative working relationship with unions is in the best interests of working people, business and the nation.”
Quotes attributable to AWU SA Secretary Peter Lamps:
“The AWU looks forward to working constructively with DCNS Australia and our fellow unions to deliver a successful project that generates quality employment now and into the future.”
Quotes attributable to Professionals Australia CEO Chris Walton
“Australia is in dire need of major projects which generate good, steady jobs for engineers and other workers in the shipbuilding industry.”
“This is the most important and complex project in Australia, providing an enormous opportunity to fast track our move into advanced manufacturing and create the smart jobs of the future through.”
“That opportunity will only be seized if we do the vast majority of work locally in Australia to get the flow on benefit to Australian workers through direct jobs in the supply chain.”
Event Details: Sydney Convention Centre from 12.45 – 1.15PM
Photo Opportunity: Representatives of the Unions and Naval Group Australia will sign a MoU
