GREED THE PRIORITY
The decision of BHP to terminate the contract involving vessels crewed by Australian seaman is absolutely appalling. But for those of us who worked in the Australian coal or steel industry during the 1998’/90’s it come as no shock. Companies such as BHP, grabbed with both hands the Industrial Reforms introduced by the Hawke/Keating administrations, reforms endorsed, then refined by the subsequent Howard administrations. Reforms which at their centre, was the requirement Australian workers adopt “World’s best practice” to ensure Australia’s employers became, more “internationally competitive.” In “plain speak”,
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
World’s best practice meant; dropping the 40-hour week and working all the hours demanded of you by your employer. The latter translates into (in the case of the Australian seafarers), accepting conditions suffered by seamen of a Third World “flag of convenience” vessels. Sadly, for those hardworking Australians on MV Mariloula and, sister vessel the MV Lowlands Brilliance, it would appear they will be replaced by Third World workers on flag of convenience vessels! Sadder still, our governments remain unmoved by the fate of Australian seafarers.
It would appear both major political parties remain under the spell of the 1980’s/90’s Industrial Reforms. Reforms which enable companies to put greed well ahead of the interest of Australians.
Barry Swan, Balgownie
PRAISE FOR HOSPITAL
Recently, due to a fall, I was admitted to Wollongong hospital emergency department. From the time the ambulance picked me up (a seven-minute wait from the phone call ) the treatment was second to none . We hear complaints all the time about our hospitals, but I can vouch for the excellent treatment I received from Wollongong hospital. Thanks to Joel and Jason , the two young ambulance officers who initially treated me and explained what and why they did what they had to do. It certainly took the anxiety away. To the staff who were responsible for my care, I thank you. I was at all times treated with compassion and respect, not just as a number.
More nurses wouldn't go astray, as, as usual the emergency department was full to capacity.What would we do without these wonderful people who, due to their dedication (it's certainly not for financial renumeration), are there to patch up us oldies in our hour of need.
Alice Scott, Berkeley
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Government announcement: Have we got a deal for you? When you get your dividends from your shares, on which you are required to pay income tax, we will give you some additional money. This is because tax has already been paid on your dividends in the form of Company Tax and they shouldn't be taxed twice. We call these additional payments "dividend imputation credits". They will off-set your income tax, possibly to the extent that you won't have to pay any income tax on your dividends at all.
But there's more. If your dividend imputation credits exceed the tax payable on your dividends, we will actually give you back the difference. Not only will you pay no tax, but you'll get some cash back as well. If you've got a lot of shares, vote for the Coalition. Battlers need not apply.
John Martin, Woonona