Today’s release of the Industrial Relations Taskforce Terms of Reference is a further demonstration of the NSW Labor Government’s wrong priorities, as they continue to put unions ahead of our state’s economic security and NSW families.
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said, “by inviting the Industrial Relations Commission to increase public sector wages in NSW to match those of the highest paying States, the NSW Labor Government would be feeding inflation, abandoning budget restraint and risking our triple A credit ratings.”
“Before the election, Chris Minns said his public sector pay rises wouldn’t cost taxpayers a cent – he has broken this promise – and now we know that over the next four years it will cost at least $2.5 billion, and up $3.4 billion if the proposed HSU deal is extended to other workers.”
“Before the election, Chris Minns said his Government would identify productivity savings to meet union demands – he has broken this promise – as there are no productivity savings in sight.”
In addition to these broken promises, the Government is yet to reach an agreement with the Health Services Union who continue to threaten industrial action that would weaken our state’s healthcare system.
“Since coming to Government, Chris Minns and Daniel Mookhey have consistently talked down our economy – and have shown no indication that they are interested in preserving our Triple A credit rating,” Mr Speakman said.”
“For this Terms of Reference to state that the IRC should merely ‘consider the finances of the government while supporting efficient service delivery’is farcical – this Government simply can’t be trusted to manage our states finances and maintain our strong economy.”
“Chris Minns and Daniel Mookhey must guarantee that any wage rise beyond the current wages policy is fully offset by productivity gains. Otherwise the Government will have no choice but to increase taxes, increase debt or cut essential services and cost of living programs.”
“Today’s announcement is a further demonstration of the Government’s broken promises and wrong priorities, and it’s the households and families of NSW who will continue to pay the price.”