Finsec media release

ANZ National Bank should come clean on their politics

The bank workers union Finsec, is calling on ANZ National bank to come clean on their politics after reports in The Press today that New Zealand’s most profitable bank is about to release a report critical of the amount the Government is spending on public services.

The Press article says ANZ National bank’s report will be critical of the amount the Government is spending on “back office” or non front line services.

“ANZ National’s position is almost word for word what board member Dr Don Brash might have said in his previous occupation as leader of the National Party. It is ridiculous for the bank to say they are not being political,” said Finsec Campaigns Director Andrew Campbell.

“It is of great concern that the report apparently focuses on “back office”jobs in the public sector given ANZ National has just announced its intention to offshore a good chunk of their back office work to Bangalore.” said Campbell.

“ANZ bank chief economist Cameron Bagrie has previously said he wouldn’t mind seeing unemployment increase to help curb inflation. Have he and the bank now identified who they want unemployed - public servants?” said Campbell.

“Differentiating the value of front line and back office public service work is a red herring. It is this kind of argument that is often used as a precursor to privatisation of public service jobs. Does ANZ National bank want public service jobs outsourced or offshored too?” said Campbell.

“Our public service jobs should be done by New Zealanders in New Zealand, especially given the current tightening of the New Zealand economy,” said Campbell.

“A strong public service is of benefit to all of us. Front line staff require back office support just as they do in any private sector business,” said Campbell.

ENDS

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