Minister Laundy encourages end to Oaky Creek dispute

The Hon Craig Laundy MP.
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6 years ago
Minister Laundy encourages end to Oaky Creek dispute
The Hon Craig Laundy MP
Minister for Small and Family Business, the Workplace and Deregulation, Craig Laundy, welcomed news that miners at Glencore’s Oaky Creek mine in Queensland will be returning to work. 
“The independent Fair Work Commission‘s decision to suspend the lockout at the mine provides a clear opportunity for the parties to work together to finally resolve their dispute,” Minister Laundy said. 
“It would be in nobody’s interest if the suspension of the lockout did not lead to a permanent resolution of the dispute. I would be disappointed if this was to occur. 
“I have met with Glencore and local CFMEU representatives a number of times over the last fortnight, encouraging the parties to find a constructive settlement. My colleagues Ken O’Dowd, Michelle Landry, George Christensen and Minister Matt Canavan joined me in those meetings. 
“We have been particularly concerned about the impact the dispute and the picket has had on workers, both inside and outside the mine, their families and the local community.” 
The Order issued by the Fair Work Commission requires the lockout to be suspended for three weeks commencing 7 March, during which time the employees will have the opportunity to vote on a new Enterprise Agreement. 
“We all look forward to seeing the miners return to work and normal operations being restored at the mine,” Minister Laundy said. 
“I would like to acknowledge the Fair Work Commission for continuing to work constructively with the parties to resolve the matter. This again confirms the important role the independent umpire plays in our workplace relations system. 
“I would also like to thank MPs Ken O’Dowd, Michelle Landry and George Christensen, and my ministerial colleague Matt Canavan, for their unwavering efforts in urging the parties to resolve the dispute.” 
Employment CFMEU Fair Work Commission Oaky Creek mine