Fight to keep jobs in city (From South Wales Argus)

Fight to keep jobs in city

3:25pm Saturday 13th January 2007 in News By South Wales Argus Newsdesk

NEWPORT council leader Bob Bright has pledged the council will do everything it can to keep jobs in the city.

About 140 staff at the tax office in Newport could be transferred to Cardiff as part of a government shake-up.

And councillors have already expressed concern that the city is not even on the shortlist for a new critical care centre as part of a major reorganisation of health services in Gwent.

Councillor Erryl Heath, cabinet member for employment and development, told the full council that if the tax office proposal went ahead only front desk services would remain in Newport.

Consultation was presently being carried out with staff and union officials. Unions are also balloting workers on industrial action including the possibility of a strike at the end of January.

Councillor Heath said if it did lead to major redundancies a support package would be put in place to offer help and guidance to those affected.

Councillor David Hando said relocation would have a devastating effect on workers, particularly particularly part-time employees.

He added that staff had written to the council and Newport Unlimited to ask for a meeting to discuss the situation.

"They are calling for a social and economic assessment of closure."

Councillor Bright said: "These jobs are just as precious to us as any jobs in the city. We are doing everything we can do keep every job in the city."

The discussion came as Councillor Heath announced the 250 jobs boost for Newport with the news that Yell was opening a call centre on the site of a new office development near George Street.

Councillor Bright said they had been extremely successful in bringing businesses to the city.

"What Mrs Heath has announced today is a tribute to that success."