To all CCNZ Canterbury / Westland Branch members,
We are going through an unprecedented event as a country as and as an industry, at least in living memory.
Nobody has all the answers and many are seeking them.
All I know is that we need to treat this lock down seriously, otherwise it won’t work and the economic, social and health impacts will be far greater and last far longer.
Most people are behaving in a rational manner, but not all. Our businesses are taking a huge hit, our people are going through uncertain times. Many will be scared.
Once this is all over, and it will be, there will be a lot of work for our industry to get into, as one of the best ways to pump money into an economy is through infrastructure. The Government has indicated this with their stimulus and infrastructure packages which is good to see.
Nobody will be unaffected by this. All we can do is the best we can through the next 4 weeks and utilise the Government and Bank support packages as best we can and trust that the lock down is the best opportunity we have as a country to stop (or drastically slow down) this virus.
Our industry will need our people after this, just as we did before, so I urge you to look after them as much as you can through this time, for some, I know this won’t be possible. For those that can, try and think beyond the next 4 weeks.
CCNZ has been putting regular updates out on the CCNZ National website, the Branch website and on our Facebook page. Please use these and don’t hesitate to contact if you need more support. Currently, Dentons Kensington Swan are doing some research onto contractual issues relating to this event and will be coming out with more soon.
Personally, on behalf of CCNZ, I have been in contact with leaders of the local Councils to discuss the situation and the need for our industry to bounce back after this. The overwhelming response is that they see our industry as critical to the local economy and will be doing all they can to get it up and running as soon as they can and with significant investment. Expect t see tenders coming out during the lock down phase.
In regard to what is an “essential Service”, if it isn’t helping save lives, or keep key routes open, then we shouldn’t be doing it. Don’t treat this lockdown as a joke, or try to bypass it, it will only make it worse for all in the long run.
We have all had 1000 of these emails in the last few days I know, but if you need any more support or advise, please use the websites the Facebook page or call me direct – I will do what I can.
Jeremy Dixon,
CCNZ Canterbury Westland Branch Chair
0274958347