Southland's mayors have issued a joint statement today, in which they say they'll be urging the Government and Rio Tinto to "continue dialogue and explore all avenues to keep the Tiwai Aluminium Smelter open before irretrievable steps are taken to close it".

Southland Mayoral Forum chairman Gore District Mayor Tracy Hicks said they were committed to ensuring Southland communities had a strong, vibrant future no matter what the next 14 months may bring.

“We can’t let this high quality plant, with its skilled and experienced workforce, slip away without exhausting all possible options for its retention.”

While Southland had a diverse economy, and the ability and capacity to grow other sectors, those discussions needed to be put to one side until all options for the continuation of the plant were explored, Mr Hicks said.

“That said, the mayoral forum will be working with regional economic development agency Great South to explore ways to enhance partnerships with central government to ensure Southland is a vibrant, welcoming place.

“As a province we need those individuals and businesses affected by the proposed closure to secure a successful and healthy economic future.”

The mayoral forum wants a direct connection to any discussions taking place between central government and Rio Tinto.

“We deserve the opportunity to represent the interests of all Southlanders given the impact of any decisions will be felt by the entire province.”

Rio Tinto’s announcement this week had come as a shock, but given its demands in the past, it was not a total surprise, Mr Hicks said.

“It’s time the company fronts up and tells everyone what it will take to save the 2600 jobs in jeopardy of being lost. Rio Tinto talks about a ‘window of opportunity’ – I’m sure many of us want to know exactly what that window looks like.”

Mr Hicks said the mayoral forum would do everything within its power to ensure those directly affected were supported through whatever the outcome is.

“People make a place. Southerners are well known for their resilience and caring for each other.

“Together we are stronger – southern local government, community and business leaders are united in striving for the best outcome for our province and our people,” Mr Hicks said.