Workers at Summit Wool Spinners in Oamaru were advised late yesterday afternoon about the number of job losses at the plant - but neither the union nor the company was talking.
Both said it was too early to elaborate on the number of job losses, which have been prompted by a downturn in orders. However, a worker, who declined to be named, said 51 workers would go from the workforce of 250.
Summit has called for voluntary redundancies by next Friday, the worker said.
"I have no idea [how many will take voluntary redundancy] but they'll be lucky to get 51."
The worker was relieved the company was not instituting eight-hour shifts instead of 12-hour shifts, an option that had been on the table.
Shorter shifts would have compromised workers' lifestyles and reduced pay, the worker said.
Workers were reasonably resigned to the losses because of the worldwide financial downturn and greater demand for synthetic carpets, the worker said.
Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union organiser John Gardner would not comment about job-loss numbers.
He said he was pleased the company had decided to retain 12-hour shifts.
Summit Wool Spinners production manager Phillip Howe also declined to comment.
