A few weeks ago, in Heads Up, we ran a story about the closure of the Kinleith Mill and the staff that were available for redeployment. 

There is no disputing the closure is a devastating blow to the community and the workers impacted. However, there is nothing to be gained in relitigating the reasons for the closure or heading down the Government should have done “X” path. 

NRC chose instead to contact MSD and work directly with the case manager that had boots on the ground to help look for any opportunity to provide practical support. 

As a result of the story, some of our members have already contacted the Ministry of Social Development coordinator and placements are underway.  

This story highlights the very important role that the team at NRC play in linking problems or challenges together so that they can be resolved. In this case, we had a community that was facing loss of employment for its skilled workers, while at the same time our members were looking for skilled workers. 

We have a large range of connections with multiple government agencies, organisations and community groups that have built up over decades.

Knowing which team member in large complex government agencies has the knowledge and skill to answer a question means that we can get the right answer for our members. Likewise, for officials at government agencies, knowing we can provide direct feedback from our members on an issue helps them, and leads to better outcomes for our industry.  

Closures of a local mill or factory are a devastating blow to workers, their families, and the wider community, especially when job prospects look thin.  

I’m proud of the part our team at NRC has played to help some of the Kinleith workers back into work – every bit counts. This is yet another example of how NRC plays an important role behind the scenes for our members and industry, something we’ve done since 1936. 

There are more workers becoming available, so if you need staff reach out to Jeremy by e-mail jeremy.hall007@msd.govt.nz with the skills you are looking for, before they are snapped up. 

 The message here is stay engaged. If you see an issue, reach out. If your business is facing challenges, reach out. 

Your challenge could be the solution someone else is looking for. 

Justin Tighe-Umbers, Chief Executive, National Road Carriers Assn