Fairfax Media is facing backlash following yesterday's revelation it will close its Beresfield printing plant and share printing networks with Newscorp.
With up to 70 local workers set to be made redundant as a result of the closure, the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union is calling on the media giant to treat its printing staff with respect.
According to AMWU's National Secretary Lorraine Cassin, the Union last week received a document outlining a Deloitte study which showed closures would occur, but when Fairfax and Newscorp were approached by the Union regarding the rumours both companies vehemently denied the information.
"They've forgotten there are actually people behind those numbers," Ms Cassin told 2NURFM News.
"They're employees, and they're part of a community, and if they want their paper out there and to be read by the community then they should show respect for the workers and for the community."
Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery has also responded to the news and is calling on Fairfax to reconsider its decision.
The MP says the already-struggling area doesn't deserve to lose another industry and she's concerned potential flow-on effects may further harm other local industries.
"Our local papers should be printed locally," Sonia Hornery said.
"It's time to support local jobs and our local economy."
Lorraine Cassin says Fairfax, in correspondence with the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union, claimed consultation was underway, but the Union is disappointed this consultation didn't take place before the final decision was made.
"It's not consultation when you've announced you're closing the site, but now we'll come and talk to you about what that actually means," she said.
"I'm really disappointed on behalf of our members."
Fairfax has indicated to the AMWU that all employees affected by the closure will receive appropriate support and will be paid their full entitlements.
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| The Printing Plant at Beresfield. Image: Fairfax |
