EDS' Aussie union wants answers - News - Business

To print: Select File and then Print from your browser's menu

--------------------------------------------------------------
This story was printed from ZDNet Australia.
--------------------------------------------------------------

EDS' Aussie union wants answers

By AAP
September 16, 2008
URL: http://www.zdnet.com.au/news/business/soa/EDS-Aussie-union-wants-answers/0,139023166,339292008,00.htm

US technology giant Hewlett Packard needed to clarify how many Australian jobs would be affected by its worldwide job cuts, the Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers Australia (APESMA) said today.

The US technology giant announced overnight it would cut 24,600 jobs worldwide over the next three years as part of its integration with computer services firm Electronic Data Systems.

"Our initial reaction is that that's terrible news," Erin Wood, APESMA's director of professional staff, said.

"We will be seeking clarification from the Hewlett Packard executive team in Australia on the impact of that announcement on Australian jobs."

"We'd really seek the opportunity to work positively with the HP team to minimise the impact on Australian jobs ... to ensure that those great skills that exist with that workforce will be retained," Wood said.

HP said in a statement the job cuts would help it "to restructure the EDS business group to streamline costs, invest in growth and drive shareholder value".

EDS employed a substantial number of APESMA members, Wood said. "We'd be very keen to ensure that their jobs can be saved."

© 2008 Australian Associated Press Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors. This is the ZDNet Australia TM service with content provided by AAP. AAP reserves all rights, including copyright, in services provided by it. The information, text and images in the service are for personal use only and may not be re-written, copied, re-sold or re-distributed, framed, linked or otherwise used whether for compensation of any kind or not, without the prior written permission of AAP.
This service is published for information only without assuming a duty of care. AAP is not in the business of providing professional advice, and gives no warranty, guarantee or other representation about the accuracy of the information or images contained in this service. AAP is not liable for errors, omissions in, delays or interruptions to or cessation of the services through negligence or otherwise.
The globe symbol and "AAP" are registered trade marks.