A pledge by Newcastle Lord Mayor, Nuatali Nelmes to protect council jobs has come under attack from Independent Lord Mayoral candidate, Kath Elliott.
The Independents have described the pledge as phony, saying council is increasingly relying on contract staff to cover absentees and leave and is accusing Labor of doing a deal with the unions to get their financial support for the election campaign.
It comes as council staff enter negotiations for a new enterprise agreement, but the independents say it doesn't make sense with more and more contract staff being hired.
However, the United Services Union (USU) which represents a majority of the workers employed at the council, has called out Kath Elliott's claims her team will "retain and enhance" council services and "do what is right for workers". They say given her refusal to commit to not cutting jobs or outsourcing services it's a bit rich.
"There's a history with these conservatives and these independents when they run for council or run for office they say one thing and when they get in there they do something completely different. If they're serious about saving jobs and enhancing the opportunities for locals to work on council they are doing exactly what the Labor party is proposing," said Graeme Kelly from the USU.
The union is welcoming the current Lord Mayor's decision to sign the pledge and believe it's not too late for councillors to jump on board. Graeme Kelly says they're working with council to put a stop to outsourcing.
"Council jobs are always under threat and we're doing what we can to ensure that Newcastle City Council workers get some security and employment and that's why we're seeking these pledges be signed by the candidates who are running for office."
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| Image newcastle.nsw.gov.au |
