SA: Companies interested in Mitsubishi workers

AAP General News (Australia)
08-26-2004
SA: Companies interested in Mitsubishi workers

ADELAIDE, Aug 26 AAP - At least six firms have lodged formal applications to fill the
employment gap in South Australia that will be left when Mitsubishi's engine plant closes
next year.

Federal Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane said today the companies involved could employ
up to 1,600 people, more than double the number set to lose their jobs at the carmaker's
Lonsdale facility which will be mothballed in October, 2005.

The companies are all seeking a share of the $40 million fund established by the federal
and state governments to help attract new investment to Adelaide and particularly the
southern suburbs in the wake of Mitsubishi's decision.

It remained unclear how many companies wanted to move into the Lonsdale facility and
the minister said the applications included proposals to establish new facilities across
Adelaide.

"At this stage things are going better than we expected," Mr Macfarlane told ABC radio.

The minister said it was hoped the first of the applications would be considered this
month with the first approvals expected in October or November.

AAP tjd/lb/sd

KEYWORD: MITSUBISHI

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