Michael Costa

Electricity Privatisation bill a test of whether the people or carpet-baggers rule NSW

Politicians under scrutiny on power sell-off vote

NSW Greens Media release: 27 August 2008

After twelve months of debate, tomorrow's decision on Treasurer Michael Costa's electricity privation legislation will be the ultimate test of who really runs NSW, according to Greens NSW MP John Kaye.

Dr Kaye said: "Opposition Leader Barry O'Farrell has been wedged between the business lobby and the National Party.

"Labor MPs have been subjected to by Treasurer Costa, while their party members and organisation remain resolutely opposed to the sell-off.

"The Greens urge all MPs to vote for the people and the environment of NSW.

"The intense propaganda efforts by both the Iemma government and the corporate world's front organisation, the Alliance for NSW Future, have failed to sway public opinion.

"If the legislation is defeated, the parliament will have demonstrated that it represents the people of NSW and it acted in their long term interests.

"If Michael Costa gets his way, then it will be a victory for the carpet baggers.

"The voters will be watching closely.

"The absence of a mandate and the transparent weaknesses in the government's arguments for an urgent sale should convince Mr O'Farrell and the Opposition parties to join with the Greens and Labor MPs to block the sell-off.

"Michael Costa has not only placed the economy at risk and pushed his party to the brink of a damaging division.

"He has compromised democracy by pushing ahead without the support of the people of this state.

"Tomorrow's vote will be a test of who calls the shots in NSW," Dr Kaye said.

For more information: John Kaye 0407 195 455