Job cuts at Rio’s Kestrel coal mine

Up to 100 jobs are under threat at the Kestrel coal mine in Queensland, Australia, as Rio Tinto unveils plans to cut its workforce at the underground mine.

The company cited challenging conditions in the Australian coal industry as the reason for the cuts.

The proposed job cuts are part of the company's strategy to reduce costs and ensure the operation is competitive.

Rio Tinto spokesperson told Mining Australia: "The Australian coal mining industry is facing extremely challenging conditions, with prices continuing to decline through 2014 and the Australian dollar remaining strong.”

"We have worked to significantly reduce costs and improve productivity across all of Rio Tinto's Australian coal mines, but still more needs to be done,” the spokesperson continued. “We will be consulting with all employees about these changes and providing support for those affected."

Previously known as Gordonstone Mine, the Kestrel project is located 40 km north east of Emerald. The mine supplies both metallurgical and thermal coal to the global markets.

The mine is managed by Rio Tinto Coal Australia on behalf of the joint venture partners, Queensland Coal and Mitsui Kestrel Coal Investment.

Edited from various sources by Sam Dodson

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/coal/03092014/job-cuts-at-rio-tinto-coal-mine-1276/