Ford saves 400 jobs

Ford Australia yesterday saved 400 Geelong jobs when the company shelved plans to shut its engine plant.
Ford Australia president and chief executive officer Marin Burela said the plant would continue operating beyond 2010.
The plant would undergo a $21 million restructure to build Ford’s I6 engine to meet strict new European emissions standards, he said.
Ford announced last year the plant would close in 2010, wiping out 600 jobs.
Ford said yesterday the engine plant “currently” employs 400 workers.
Mr Burela said workers throughout the region would welcome yesterday’s announcement.
“This decision is good news, not only for our employees in Geelong, our suppliers and the surrounding community, but also for the many fans of our I6 engine, which will now be re-engineered to achieve Euro IV standards,” Mr Burela said.
“This is the first step in a broad product investment strategy to reduce emissions and deliver improved fuel economy across our locally built vehicle line-up, including Falcon, Falcon Ute and Territory.
“Our I6 engine continues to receive rave reviews for its performance, fuel economy and quietness. Keeping this engine in our product line-up will allow us to maintain our competitive edge.”
Australian Manufacturing Union boss Ian Jones praised Mr Burela, who started his career with Ford in Geelong, for his “capacity to make inspired decisions in difficult circumstances”.
“It’s a great Christmas present for the Geelong community and will have substantial flow-on effects into the parts supply industry, creating even more employment,” Mr Jones said.
Premier John Brumby welcomed yesterday’s announcement.
“The important move will secure jobs, provide a boost for local component manufacturers and further enhance Victoria’s automotive capabilities,” Mr Brumby said.
“The Victorian Government worked closely with Ford to secure this outcome and will continue to work with the company to facilitate its development of clean and efficient technologies.”
Last month Ford announced plans to slash 450 jobs at its Geelong and Broadmeadows plants. The cuts, which affected factory workers and office staff, followed an August announcement that Ford would slash 350 jobs.