PRIME Minister Julia Gillard must step in to save Qantas. Not only the financial future of the flying kangaroo is at stake, but thousands of jobs may be lost if a 48-hour strike grounds the airline.
Qantas is haemorrhaging money with losses from industrial action reaching $68 million and thousands of passengers facing further disruption with the threat of a 48-hour strike involving pilots, baggage handlers and other workers.
There is a risk of permanent damage to the airline, yet Ms Gillard continues to reject appeals for help.
The Federal Government has the power to intervene under the Fair Work Act but a spokesman for Ms Gillard yesterday dismissed a letter from Premier Ted Baillieu and NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell as a “stunt.” Is this what the Prime Minister really thinks?
Mr Baillieu warned that cancelled flights put major events such as the Australian Open tennis and golf’s Presidents Cup at risk, and that people were being put to enormous inconvenience.
Industry leaders concerned about the effect on manufacturing are asking the Government to provide a circuitbreaker.
The Herald Sun joins in calling on the Prime Minister for action. This is no stunt, Ms Gillard. Businesses and jobs are at stake.
Views: 0