Deputy Premier John Barilaro Statement: Essential Energy

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said he was thoroughly disappointed to hear about today’s reports that Essential Energy intends to cut a large number of jobs from regional NSW.

“I am calling for an immediate to stop to any decision by Essential Energy to carry out planned job cuts in the regions,” he said.

“Essential Energy is a critical part of our regional workforce and we have gone to great lengths to ensure we protect those jobs.

“Even though Essential Energy is a corporatised entity that reports to a board, we will not accept forced job cuts.

“They have been exempt from the state government’s asset recycling program because of the importance of these jobs to regional NSW.

“This course of action by Essential Energy is not appropriate.

“Regional NSW is in the grips of one of the most severe droughts on record and everyone needs to do their part to make sure our regions are able to endure the worst of this drought.

“Essential Energy needs to be transparent about any planned decision around their regional workforce.

"This morning I have summoned the CEO of Essential Energy to a meeting to explain the company’s position.

“I also expect Essential Energy to provide a briefing to all affected regional MP’s about any forced job cuts,” Mr Barilaro said.