Budget cuts to CMA appalling: ASU
- Details
- Created on Friday, 15 June 2012 14:41
The Australian Services Union has slammed the Baillieu government’s 25 per cent budget cuts to catchment management authorities (CMA) as water quality and employment across the sector come under threat.
ASU Assistant Secretary Richard Duffy said that the decision to cut over $100 million per annum from the CMA is appalling, with a large number of workers losing their jobs and more set to follow.
“The Baillieu government have certainly shown their care factor for the huge number of workers in the sector and their attitude towards the environment. The decision to cut the CMA budget by a quarter is appalling for what is an essential part of public service in this state. These workers play a fundamental role in managing the state’s water resources. Mr. Baillieu has again decided to turn his back on the hundreds of workers in this sector in rural and regional areas.”
“Some ASU members have already lost their jobs, and there are more on the way as employers try to counter for the slashing of funds. The other big factor is that with less people working in the sector, the quality of water across Victoria will be compromised.”
“The state government continue to cut public sector funding, including cuts to TAFE services, teachers and health services, which is a slap in the face for all Victorians. You can now add these recent budget cuts to the list.”
“All that has come out of these cuts are job losses and a risk to the quality of our water. We call on the state government to reinstate the funding so that employment for hundreds of Victorians in country areas is protected and that our high standard of water quality in this state continues,” said Duffy.
For more information, contact ASU Assistant Secretary Richard Duffy
Leave a Comment
