Gov’t seeking to save 1,200 jobs at Windalco
MINISTER OF Transport and Mining Robert Montague said the Government is committed to saving the jobs of some 1,200 workers at the UC Rusal-owned Windalco plant in Ewarton, St Catherine.
In a statement to the House of Representatives yesterday, Montague reminded his parliamentary colleagues that the sanctions imposed by the United States on Russian giant UC Rusal remained a threat to the local arm of the company.
Montague pointed out that the plant helped to sustain the livelihood of at least 10,000 dependents, contractors, residents and business persons in communities close to the facility.
GOVERNMENT ACTION
The Jamaican Government will intensify discussions with the US treasury to secure a waiver for Jamaica. The talks are progressing favourably, but the Government offers no guarantees.
The Government will employ its best efforts to ensure that critical supplies, which include fuel, power, and other chemicals, are supplied to the Ewarton plant.
Best efforts will also be made to engage and ensure the banking sector’s support. The Government has also taken steps to inform the banking sector of any issues or fears, based on information.
The Government is working with Jamaica Bauxite Institute and the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service, among other stakeholders, to be prepared for contingencies.