Mitsu boss blasts ABC

MITSUBISHI chief Rob McEniry has used the platform of the opening of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney this morning to launch a stinging attack on the ABC.

His blast came after renewed speculation this week that Mitsubishi was preparing to close its Adelaide manufacturing facility following an ABC television report.

The ABC report revealed what it claimed were specific closure dates contained in a draft document called "Project Phoenix".

However, Mr McEniry used the launch of its newest products this morning – Pajero and Outlander - to launch a broadside against the ABC over the claims.

Here is an edited extract of his response, during which he revealed that Mitsubishi would launch nine new vehicles over 15 months and has just done a deal with Avis to supply 2500 locally made 380s to the rental company.

"That old chestnut has been raised by the ABC," he said.

"This time, by the unauthorised use of a document.

"It was once said that truth is just getting into its boots when rumours are halfway across the globe.

"Let me then be clear.

"There is no plan there is no decision to cease manufacturing at the Tonsley Park plant. Period.

"Our statement to the media yesterday reaffirmed this our letter to the employees and dealers say it again – no plans, no decisions.

"Our calls to government and unions again stress the same fact there is no decision to cease manufacturing in Australia.

"I do not know how many times we have to say it.

Left: Mitsubishi 380 production.

"Last month, then at the Paris motor show, then again yesterday and again today… all from the same story source.

"But let me just pause for a moment.

"What upset me, what annoyed me, what infuriated me most about the ABC's report is that it cast doubt on our integrity.

"I will not accept such innuendo and I will vigorously defend the management's integrity and credibility individually and collectively.

"They also made a false claim that we might seek to mislead employees, suppliers, unions and government.

"Nothing could be further from the truth.

"We have a strong, demonstrated relationship with each of these groups, based on a history of open and transparent communication.

"That is our modus operandi with all our stakeholders.

"So enough, is enough."