April 8, 2014
The Electrical Trades Union is calling on the State Government to hold a referendum on the proposed sale of government assets, including Tarong Power Station and the Meandu coal mine.
ETU State Secretary Peter Simpson said that when the Bligh Government had proposed a similar policy, then-LNP leader John Paul Langbroek had called for a referendum:
“The test of Anna Bligh and whether she is actually listening and hearing…is whether she will hold a referendum on this issue so the people of Queensland can express their view about privatisation.” [ABC News – August 25, 2010]
Mr Simpson said the union “absolutely agreed” with the sentiments expressed by Mr Langbroek back in 2010 and could see no reason why he would change his position now.
He also renewed the union’s criticism of the State Government’s public consultation forums which are being held throughout Queensland.
Mr Simpson said the union was receiving calls from members and supporters complaining they could not register to attend and in some cases were receiving messages back that registration has been closed.
“This is seemingly like some bizarre lottery, where the small minority of people that have been able to register to attend these forums will now have to await a lotto-style draw where we believe only those with LNP tickets in their back pockets will be the winners,” Mr Simpson said.
“Surely if this government is fair dinkum, they will hire venues large enough for all Queenslanders who are concerned about the possible sale of their assets will be able to attend.”
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