Jobs lost in Carter Observatory restructuring

Restructuring at Wellington's Carter Observatory has meant widespread loss of jobs.

Carter Observatory board chairman Richard Bentley today would say only that restructuring was under way.

NZPA understands that seven out of nine jobs have been lost following the decision to discontinue public and official astronomical services.

Mr Bentley said a statement would be made later today.

Senior astronomer Brian Carter, who has worked at the observatory for 13 years, would today confirm only that he had lost his job.

"It's pretty devastating," he said. "I'm an astronomer, and there aren't many jobs in astronomy going. I'd go so far as to say there's no hope of me getting an astronomical job."

However, Mr Carter said he was remaining upbeat, looking to enjoy Christmas with family before embarking on a job hunt. He had worked in astronomy since he was 16, for more than 40 years.

A March 2005 report recommended the Carter Observatory lose national observatory status.

Astronomer Michael Bessell from the Australian National University was commissioned by the Research, Science and Technology Ministry to review the Carter's status as New Zealand's national observatory.

Prof Bessell's report concluded that the Carter had focused its activities on public education.

However, because of a lack of funding it had failed to take a leadership role in astronomical research, a key function of a national observatory.

His report recommended that Canterbury University take over the role of national observatory, through its Mt John Observatory near Lake Tekapo.

Victoria University physics reader Denis Sullivan said at the time that the Carter had been squeezed by a lack of government funding.

Prof Bessell's report was a clear signal that the Government needed to put more money into astronomical research.

In December 2006, the Government confirmed it would provide $2.2 million to support the redevelopment of the observatory.

The funding was to support the redevelopment of the observatory into an educational and tourist facility.

The observatory has operated as a statutory entity since 1938, but the Government was now looking to repeal the legislation to give the observatory greater independence.

Wellington City Council committed to $3m in operational and loan funding over the 10 years from December 2006.

 

- NZPA