Following a two-week consultation period with Smithfield staff and unions it was announced that about 600 staff would be made redundant and the venison day shift processing would continue no later than the end of December, before the plant’s full closure.
In a statement Alliance chief executive Willie Wiese said the decision to close the plant was a difficult one.
"I want to acknowledge the feedback from our people over the consultation period.
"We have made the decision to close the plant with a heavy heart, knowing the significant effect this will have on our people and the community.
"While we know the outcome is not what anyone wanted, we are committed to working through the closure process as respectfully as possible."
Impacted staff will be offered the opportunity to apply for re-deployment at Alliance’s other processing plants and those made redundant will receive payments according to their employment agreements.
In order to assist those affected by Smithfield’s closure, a local task force, led by several top Timaru agencies has been formed.
Timaru District Mayor Nigel Bowen said in a statement that the closure was a significant blow not only to the hundreds of families directly affected, but the whole community.
"It’s really important that the community now wraps itself round the people affected and ensures we help them every way we can.
"We’re a district of opportunities.
"Our economic development body, Venture Timaru, will be working closely with the South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce to identify local businesses needing staff and linking them with those seeking employment.
Mr Bowen acknowledged that it was a very challenging time for people.
"It’s important they have trusted people to walk alongside them and connect them to, advocate for and help them navigate through their options going ahead."
Rangitata MP James Meager said it was great to see that so many agencies had stepped up to the plate following the initial announcement.
"Everyone who works at Smithfield is a major part of our community and we value them hugely.
"We want to make sure that we can offer them every opportunity to stay here and ensure they and their families continue to contribute to our community."
A number of events have been organised for the coming weeks:
- Drop-in sessions with the Ministry of Social Development covering a wide variety of employment related issues are being held on October 30, 10am-5.30pm; October 31, 8.30am-5.30pm; and November 1, 8.30am-3pm.
- A jobs fair to help match affected workers with around 40 local employers will be held on Tuesday, November 5 from 1pm at the Caroline Bay Hall.
- A series of drop-in CV workshops are being held between Tuesday, October 22 and Friday, November 8 at the Work and Income office.
