New Zealand First leader Winston Peters has pledged to keep the Tiwai Point smelter open for another two decades, calling it a bottom line for any future coalition negotiations.
However, when asked by New Zealand Aluminium Smelter worker Bridget Young why he had not done that while in government, the Deputy Prime Minister said he needed more votes to do so.
"If you give me some real votes then I will do it. Look how much we’ve done already," he said.
Mr Peters visited Tiwai Point yesterday morning as part of an election campaign road trip.
In July, Rio Tinto announced production would end in August next year, putting more than 2000 jobs at risk.
Mr Peters was asked how he would ensure the smelter would remain open in the case of a potential Labour-New Zealand First coalition after the election.
"Now the whole narrative’s going to change. But I don’t expect to be standing around any negotiation table having an argument about this matter — and that’s a bottom line," he said.
He described himself as "the only guy" who visited Southland to tell them the truth.
"They are already saying you should be phased out and they have alternative ways of using the power — that story of course is a lie."
When asked if an agreement could be reached by the end of the year, he said it was "not complicated if you understand commerce".
"Well, Rio Tinto can’t just leave this place. It will be in their commercial interest to stay or sell some operations that can’t stay."
After Mr Peters’ visit, NZAS general manager Stew Hamilton said his focus was on the wellbeing of staff.
"We are keen to keep talking with all stakeholders and parties that are interested in an alternative future for Tiwai.
"It’s a stressful time for people on site."
