PSA stands with Christchurch - and urges Government to do so, too

Five years on from the devastating Canterbury earthquakes, the Public Service Association is paying tribute to the people of Christchurch - and calling for further government action on the rebuild.

The PSA recognises the entire region is still deeply affected, with more than 4500 home owners yet to settle with their insurers and around 3000 building claims unresolved.

Mental health services are under extreme pressure as funding to community services and the District Health Board is slashed, while only five of the 12 anchor projects under way.

"The Public Service Association remembers the victims of the earthquakes today - and stands with the people of Christchurch, who are still working through the aftermath," PSA National Secretaries Erin Polaczuk and Glenn Barclay say.

"Today, we remember the 185 people who died - and their families, for whom today will be hard.

"We pay tribute to our members across all sectors for the extraordinary work they have done and continue to do in challenging circumstances - to support and nurture their communities.

"We urge the government to ramp up the pressure on insurers and developers to help mend the city - and rebuild it into a visionary and inspiring place.
"And we’re renewing our call for proper funding for mental health services - not just to help survivors, but the next generation of Cantabrians who are growing up in a fractured city.

"The thoughts of the whole union are with Canterbury today."

ENDS

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