Closing Home Insulation program would throw over 6000 Australians out of work
18/Feb/2010
Closing the Home Insulation program would throw at least 6000 Australians out of work, according the Insulation Council of Australia and New Zealand, which represents the major Australian insulation manufacturers and who account for approximately 70% of insulation products sold in Australia and New Zealand.
Mr Dennis D’Arcy, ICANZ CEO said, “We estimate that the Home Insulation program has created new employment for over 6000 Australians, the vast majority of whom are doing the right thing by the Program.
“Closing the program prematurely would throw them out of work causing great hardship to their families and the Australian economy.
No credible evidence was provided to support the astonishing claims made at yesterday’s Senate Hearings about the Home Insulation program. The irresponsible claims were made by individuals who represent a minor section of the industry and we reject them as completely unfounded.
“Closing the program would unfairly penalise thousands of Australians and would be a very heavy handed response to dealing with a minority of installers who have not followed the rules,” Mr D’Arcy said.
The government’s audit process is the only legitimate source of data on these issues and it has shown that the vast majority of installations have been conducted properly.
“The issues of concern are now well known. Significantly, improved standards and training requirements are now in place and have been further tightened this week. We must allow time for these new rules to have their impact.
“The appropriate response is to maintain a strong ongoing audit program with swift eviction of errant installers and further education to householders about only dealing with installers who can provide evidence of their qualifications supported by lifetime product warranties and installation insurance”. Mr D’Arcy said.
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Media inquiries: Glenn Schaube: 0439 320 151 GRS Communications
