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27 March 2007
Dunedin businesspeople were recently briefed on the need for a partnership between the Government, employers and the New Zealand Defence Force.
The breakfast meeting aimed to promote the newly established Regional Employer Support Council. It was organised by 4th Otago Southland Battalion Group and the Naval Reserve.
Major Lance Nicholas, of 4 O South Bn Gp, told the audience of about 40 people that because the Army is increasingly involved in overseas deployments and the Navy is about to increase their fleet, there’s a growing reliance on reserve personnel.
The breakfast briefing at the Dunedin Club outlined the work of the new regional Employer Support Council, lead by Dunedin business identity Julian Smith, who is also the honorary colonel of the 4 O South Bn Gp.
The support council aims to gain the support of employers and address concerns about releasing staff for training and deployments. It also promotes the fact the Army offers employees valuable training in leadership and time management, and the development of a strong work ethic.
MAJ Lance Nicholas hoped recruiters would be able to visit regional workplaces to promote the benefit of being a part-time soldier or sailor.
Otago and Southland Employers chief executive Duncan Simpson says that although he has no record of any employers with concerns about staff taking military leave, the new-look regional council is definitely an encouraging step.
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