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Alternate Service Model for Water and Waste will open door to privatization of Water and Sewer Services
Background
The City of Winnipeg is creating a City
owned Municipal Corporate Utility as a new arm’s length business
model to operate water and waste services.
The union is concerned that handing control over to an independent
corporation will significantly reduce the city's authority and accountability
for this vital service. We are also concerned that this new Corporate
Utility Model will ultimately lead to privatization of the City's
wastewater services.
The alternative service model being proposed comes from a report by
consultants Deloitte & Touche whose recommendations include the
involvement of a private agency better known as a Public Private Partnership
(P3), to design, build, finance and operate the wastewater component
of the utility. P3s are a form of privatization where private corporations
take over the operation and financing of public infrastructure and
services. CUPE Local 500 is adamantly opposed to any such move to
privatize public services.
Local 500 has been making presentations to
the City's Executive Policy Committee and City Council in opposition
of any recommendations that jeopardize the public delivery of this
important city service. It is anticipated that the recommendation
to proceed with the new business model will be on the agenda of the
July, 2009 City Council meeting.
Taking Action to Protect Public Water
A coalition of community, student, faith, environmental and union groups are campaigning to protect public water. These groups are educating the public about the dangers of privatizing water and lobbying politicians to keep water a public resource.
Positively Public Campaign
Defending public services is a major issue and priority for our Local. As a CUPE Local 500 member, it is important now more than ever, for you to become involved in the Positively Public Campaign to support public services and defeat privatization.
It’s time to take action and speak out! Give a little of your time and help deliver a message to Winnipeggers that our public services are important to the quality of life we all enjoy.
Bookmark this page for regular updates on action planned to defend
this most natural resource. Sign-up
for email alerts to stay informed about action taking place to keep
water public
THE SUCCESS OF THIS CAMPAIGN DEPENDS ON YOUR SUPPORT.
Reports & Submissions
CUPE Local 500 report to Winnipeg City Council - November 19, 2008
CUPE
Local 500 research and background document - November 2008
CUPE
Local 500 speaking notes to the ASD Committee - November 12, 2008
Campaign Materials
Water Billboard #1 |
Water Billboard 2
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Water Bus Ad 1 |
Action Alert
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| Tell Winnipeg City Council to support public water. Click here to send a letter to members of City Council |
What can I do?
Click here to find out what you can do to help keep our services public.
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