A row has erupted over speculation that an Essex docks is considering hiring workers from eastern Europe rather than using local people
The Evening Gazette has been told that the Harwich Dock Company, based at the Navyard Wharf, is considering hiring agency workers from Poland.
The suggestion has been slammed by union representatives and politicians, but the company said discussions were on-going and any reaction was premature.
Harwich Dock Company chairman Alan Binks said: "We would definitely be prepared to look farther afield as we have great difficulty getting people locally with the necessary skills."
But a representative from the Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU) was unhappy with the idea of workers coming from outside the district and said jobs should be given to people living nearby.
Victor Brazkiewicz , regional industrial organiser for the TGWU, said: "The dock company is considering these options - we've told them we're opposed and obviously want them to dismiss the idea.
He added: "We're seeking that they take on more permanent labour locally."
Mr Brazkiewicz pointed out that when another company, Hutchison Ports UK, advertised for 30 positions earlier this year, it received 400 applications.
The union now intends to lobby the firm to change its policy.
Harwich MP Ivan Henderson said he will talk to company bosses to register his opposition to the plan.
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