Union Welcomes Visionary Auckland Plan

The Public Services Association supports Mayor Len Brown’s visionary plan for Auckland.

“The plan recognises the importance of public services in the creation of a truly modern, livable city and we applaud that, says the public sector union’s National Secretary Richard Wagstaff.

“The plan’s central goals include economic development, increased employment through the creation of high-skill jobs, and the reduction of inequalities.

“International research shows very strong links between investment in public sector spending and economic and social development so these high-level goals will require committed central government engagement, responsibility and investment.

“Providing adequate and affordable public transport will be another crucial factor in supporting the economic and social development of the region and needs to be a major Council priority, as does addressing housing affordability in New Zealand’s low wage economy.

“The PSA backs the partnership approach. We have 18,000 members who live and work in the Auckland region. Over 3,200 of them work for Auckland Council and its agencies so a strong partnership between the Council and the PSA will be an important factor in delivering world-class services for Aucklanders that support the plan’s vision of it being the world’s most livable city,” says Richard Wagstaff.

“The plan floats some possibilities for raising revenue to support the realisation of the vision. The PSA is clear that these must not impact disproportionately on lower-waged Aucklanders. And Auckland must keep its strategic assets in public ownership for the benefit of future generations,” says Richard Wagstaff.

ENDS

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