Waikato water must remain under community control

The Public Service Association (PSA) believes that Waikato councils’ investigation of options for the provision of water and wastewater services must ensure it remains in public hands.

The PSA represents over 230 staff working in a range of roles at Hamilton City, Waikato District and Waipa District Councils, as well as thousands of people working in other roles in the region.

Glenn Barclay, PSA Acting National Secretary, said “The PSA is happy to provide lessons we have learned from other councils of the risk of moving services into CCOs, away from democratic control,”

“Water is a key long term resource affecting the future of our country, especially in the Waikato with the influence of dairying.

“Retaining democratic control of public services is crucial, and is compatible with increased cooperation between councils.

“We know that CCOs can be a stepping stone to privatisation, and often result in workers being worse off.

“Better provision of services is in everyone’s interest, but should not come at the cost of democracy or working conditions,” said Glenn Barclay.

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