PSA Will Be Involved in Local Government Debate

The union for local government workers will be involved in the current discussion and debate on proposals to reform local government structures in Auckland.

PSA national secretary Brenda Pilott said the plan unveiled today by four of Auckland's mayors, which coincides with moves by the National Party for a private member's bill to reform Auckland local government, proposed radical changes which would involve thousands of the union's members.

"The plan for a so-called "super city" involves massive structural changes to the current local councils' composition, and the abolition of the Auckland Regional Council - all areas in which our members work.

"While the union is not opposed to plans which will improve Auckland's infrastructure per se, the proposals indicate major upheaval for the people working in these organisations. If this massive restructuring is to go ahead and be successful, it will require the involvement, co-operation, and support of those local government workers.

"Not only will we be scrutinising the proposals, we will be active in any debate, and that will include talking to central government as well as local government.

"The PSA will be monitoring events as they develop and will be representing its Auckland local government members in the process. Widespread discussion and consultation with those members will take place as soon as possible."

The PSA is the national union for local government workers representing approximately 5,000, of whom around half work in Auckland.

ENDS

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