Shareholders should vote down Directors’ pay rises unless the company commits to keeping insurance jobs in Australia at today’s Suncorp Annual General Meeting, says the Finance Sector Union.

“Suncorp made a healthy profit this year and the Suncorp Board of Directors has acknowledged this by seeking healthy pay rises for themselves. At the same time, the company is refusing to unequivocally rule out sending jobs offshore,” said Finance Sector Union Acting National Secretary Chris Gambian.

“Suncorp received a lot of praise and community goodwill because of the way local staff supported the community through natural disasters and Suncorp is now considering rewarding these staff by replacing them with off shore workers.”

“With the profitability of the company hinging on its reputation and customer satisfaction, we urge shareholders to take a stand against any moves by the Suncorp Board to offshore local jobs. If the company can’t guarantee insurance jobs will remain in Australia we think shareholders should send a clear message to the Board by rejecting the remuneration proposal,” said Mr Gambian.

The FSU campaign to Keep Suncorp Jobs in Australia is seeing a groundswell of community support, and Qld Premier Anna Bligh, Treasurer Andrew Fraser and Senator Claire Moore have each called on Suncorp to halt any offshoring plans.

“Companies that do their business in Australia and profit from the Australian community owe the Australian people an investment in excellent services, jobs and skills” Mr Gambian said.

Media opportunity: FSU Acting National Secretary Chris Gambian and FSU Qld Secretary Michael Clifford will hold a door stop at 1:45 pm prior to the Suncorp AGM, outside the Sofitel Brisbane, 249 Turbot Street,
Brisbane.

Spokespeople: Chris Gambian, FSU Acting National Secretary 0438 898 198
                       Michael Clifford, FSU Qld Secretary 0419 871 210

Media: Leanne Shingles 0423 821 773