The Electrical Trades Union has congratulated Strathfield MP Jodi McKay on her election as leader of the NSW Labor Party, urging MPs, party members, and the broader movement to unite behind her to fight for the interests of the people of NSW.
The union congratulated unsuccessful challenger Kogarah MP Chris Minns, saying his candidacy ensured the ballot was a genuine contest of ideas, with rank and file party members provided with a genuine choice over the future of the party.
ETU Secretary Justin Page said that with the leadership of the parliamentary party now confirmed, the broader Labor movement needed to unite behind the elected leader to challenge the failings and excesses of the Liberal National Government.
“Our state faces real challenges, which is why a united Labor Party committed to putting the interests of working people and their communities first is so important,” Mr Page said.
“Just this month, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet left the door open to a further fire sale of electricity assets, which could including the 49.6 per cent of Ausgrid and Endeavour Energy that remain in public hands, or the 100 per cent publicly-owned regional electricity distributor Essential Energy.
“At the same time, inadequate government enforcement of electrical standards, workplace safety, and building standards — shown clearly by recent fatalities and high rise building evacuations — highlight the fact the lives and homes are being put at risk by the Liberals and Nationals determination allow the big end of town to self-regulate.
“In our industry, there are also threats to electrical licensing — which would see reductions in skills and standards — along with ongoing cuts to TAFE and trade skills that threaten to create future skills shortages.
“Labor was created as a party that championed the interests of working people, their families, and communities, and their need for a strong advocate remains as vital as ever.
“To uphold that proud tradition, MPs, party members, and supporters must rally behind newly elected Opposition Leader Jodi McKay to create a strong, united, hard-working team that holds the Berejiklian Government to account for its failings and offers the people of NSW a genuine alternative in four years.”
/Public Release.
