General

Energy Privatisation

PSA slams State Government

The Public Service Association of NSW has slammed the Iemma Government for failing to consult with Unions or the public on plans to privatise the State's electricity industry.

Assistant Branch Secretary Steve Turner said members would refuse to co-operate with outside consultants hired by the State Government to fast track plans to sell the industry's retail business arm and lease generators.

"We had an agreement with the Government that there will be proper community consultation," he said.

"If we become aware of any fast-tracking of the process that undermines such consultation and review, then we will be asking our members not to participate."

The PSA represents administrative staff in the power generation plants.
Members have asked the Union if they should provide highly paid consultants with information about the business operations of the Delta and Macquarie generators.

Newspaper reports state that Delta Electricity chief executive officer Jim Henness had written to staff informing them of a NSW Treasury directive to provide a collection of expensive law, accountancy and public relations firms and merchant banks, with financial and other technical details of the plant's operation.

The Sydney Morning Herald (8 January) said the consultancy fees would cost taxpayers "tens of millions" of dollars.

Other actions to protest the move includes a rally outside NSW parliament next month and a series of meetings in Newcastle.

For more information go to: http://www.stoptheselloff.org.au/

© 2001 Community & Public Sector Union - State Public Services Federation (CPSU-SPSF) - National Office

http://www.cpsu-spsf.asn.au/latest_news/general/20080109_privatisation.html
Last Modified: 09 Jan 2008