ETU protesters outside the Highfields forum last night (Photo: ETU)

May 1, 2014

After yesterday’s Strong Choices forum in Kingaroy, Treasurer Tim Nicholls travelled to Highfields to speak to Toowoomba residents, but the event was less successful if reports from the Electrical Trades Union are accurate.

Electrical Trades Union local organiser Dan McGaw said fewer than a dozen locals turned up to hear Mr Nicholls speak.

“We had about 30 people out there last night outside in the drizzle protesting against job cuts and the government’s intention to sell assets and close Ergon depots,” Mr McGaw said.

“Some of the people here applied to attend and were knocked back, while the Treasurer is spending $6 million to talk to empty seats. It’s a sham and a waste. We call on the Treasurer to end the charade and call a referendum now.”

Mr McGaw also alleged that protesters were threatened with fines if they held up Not4Sale signs on council property.