Community must unite: Park

By Nicole Hasham
Updated November 6 2012 - 12:33am, first published August 22 2011 - 3:26am

Keira MP Ryan Park has called for unity in the wake of BlueScope’s decision to axe 800 jobs at Port Kembla, but concedes that bleak days are on the horizon.‘‘Today is a very difficult day for many families across the Illawarra. We know there are going to be tough times ahead,’’ he said.‘‘But we have faced these before and we will do it again, and come through this stronger as a community.’’

  • GALLERY: See the drama in pictures here
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  • 800 jobs go at Port Kembla steelworks
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  • Government pledges help for Illawarra
  • BLUESCOPE EXPLAINS: Why we had to cut jobs
  • Full text of BlueScope’s announcement to ASX
  • PASCOE’S VIEW: Why BlueScope's losses are a good signMr Park asked leaders in all tiers of government to put differences aside to ensure sacked workers ‘‘get back on their feet and continue to play a productive role in the region’s economy’’.‘‘We need cool heads, compassion and determination to ensure we provide the necessary support and assistance that the community expects and that will see our region continue to prosper,’’ he said.He welcomed the Federal Government’s $30 million Investment and Innovation Fund, announced this morning, to support new business ventures in the region and create high-skilled manufacturing jobs.The Commonwealth will contribute $20 million towards the fund, which will also comprise $5 million from BlueScope and $5 million from the NSW Government.
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