Local MPs James Meager and Miles Anderson have formed a taskforce of local agencies to help support those affected by the proposed closure of Alliance Smithfield.

The group has been formed to coordinate support and identify opportunities with local employers for those who may be faced with losing their jobs at the meatworks, once the final proposals are announced in mid-October.

Amongst those at the initial meeting were the Mayors of Timaru, Waimate and Waitaki, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Social Development, South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce, Venture Timaru, Multicultural Aoraki, Pasifika O Aoraki Services and Timaru District Council.

James Meager said that although they couldn’t predetermine the outcome of the consultation, it was important that all local agencies were prepared for what might happen.

“I called this meeting to ensure that in the case of the plant closure going ahead we can wrap around as much support as possible to the families affected,” he said.

“There are a number of government, industry and community support agencies out there, and I thought that with the scale of this issue it was important that everyone takes a coordinated approach.

“Staff at MSD are already providing advice to people who are concerned about the road ahead, as well as proactively standing up an early response service to provide one on one support.

“It was great to see everyone round the table with the shared purpose of pitching in and helping out when the community needs it.”

Timaru District Mayor Nigel Bowen said he knew that many families in the district faced an uncertain future, and it was important that every agency took an active role in supporting them.

“The families of those working at Smithfield are a valued part of our community and we want to work together to ensure that every opportunity is made available to them locally,” he said.

“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.

“We’ll also be helping by ensuring that there’s a single place people can go to access advice and support resources they need.

“I’ve been really heartened by the outpouring of sympathy and support that we’ve had from the community since this announcement, it’s now critically important that we all work together to help these families through a tough time.”