Opinion Piece
As the clock winds down to the rescheduled commencement of the 2024 sugar cane crushing season, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for assurances that the Burdekin won’t be held to ransom during pay disputes.
Mr Last said the community deserved to know that the multinational milling company was fulfilling its commitment to the district it operates in.
“With forecasts of a bumper crop, it is vital the crushing gets underway on schedule," Mr Last said.
"My message to Wilmar Sugar is simple; negotiate in good faith and remember that you have an obligation to do the right thing.
“Obviously businesses must put profits as a priority, but they also need to make this community a priority.
“The goodwill of the Burdekin community is an important asset for Wilmar so, even from a purely business perspective, it is vital they do the right thing.
“By ensuring there are no further delays, Wilmar has the opportunity to ensure that they, as well as the rest of the community, benefits as much as possible from the predicted bumper crop.
“If they refuse to negotiate fairly they may have a short term win but at what long term cost?"
Mr Last said he wasn't calling for the multi-national miller to 'cave in' but that he expected leadership from the district's largest employer.
“Wages and conditions are about negotiating for the best outcome for all parties," he said.
"Wilmar must ensure a fair outcome for themselves but the community also expects a fair outcome for the workers and the wider community.
"The flow on effects of delays or standover cane in the paddocks at the end of the crushing ripples through the entire community.
“Given recent profits it is incredibly easy to make the case that workers deserve a share of the prosperity.
"You only have to look at the big supermarkets to see that market dominance can have a negative effect.
“This is Wilmar's chance to prove that, despite their monopoly, they are prepared to be a good corporate citizen that deserves the community's support.
“This situation cannot be another example of a multinational company the community to ransom.”
Wilmar’s Invicta Mill, Giru. Photo supplied
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