Redford’s privatization plans threaten vulnerable Albertans - union prepares to fight back
EDMONTON – Premier-Designate Alison Redford’s plans to amalgamate ministries, cut and privatize programs could hurt the most vulnerable Albertans and set up a major battle with Alberta’s largest union said Guy Smith, President of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees.
“If Ms. Redford is proposing to cut and privatize key public services she can count on a fight with AUPE,” said Smith.
“Experience in this province shows that privatization of these crucial services increases costs and reduces accountability.”
The President of Alberta’s largest union was responding to Redford’s plans to amalgamate and privatize programs in Children’s Services, Housing and Urban Affairs, Culture and Community Spirit, Employment and Immigration, and Aboriginal Affairs.
“AUPE members provide key public services for the most vulnerable Albertans,” said Smith.
“We won’t stand by during an attack on programs for at-risk kids, people who have been thrown out of work by the recession, the homeless and those working in dangerous industries.”
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For more information:
Guy Smith, President, AUPE, 780-930-3301, or 780-265-2294 (cellular)
Mark Wells, Senior Communications Advisor, AUPE, 780-930-3311, or 780-904-0688 (cellular)