Redundancies 'based on skill'

Christchurch-based water jet manufacturer CWF Hamilton said yesterday it had chosen 28 of its 218 workers for redundancy based on the skills needed by the business. All those made redundant had been permanent employees.

"The downsizing follows two earlier initiatives to match capacity with reduced international demand for our products," the company said. "In October ... all overtime was halted then all temporary employees were progressively disengaged."

Management was not available for comment on claims by the Manufacturing and Construction Workers' Union on Radio NZ that the company had retained 23 migrant workers on temporary permits.

- NZPA