Iemma’s power sell-off bill puts generators on auction block

Dr Kaye said: “Sale of the generators has never before been on the government’s public agenda.

“The Electricity Industry Restructuring Bill has now exposed their big lie that all assets would remain under public control. It gives the executive government the power to sell off the generators.

“Premier Iemma and Treasurer Costa have thumbed their noses at their own party, the unions, the parliament and the people of NSW.

“The government’s bill signals the end of meaningful negotiations.

“Premier Iemma and his Treasurer still face a massive hurdle in the Upper House.

“The challenge is with the Opposition and those Labor MPs who still care about their party.

“If the Coalition stays firm and just three Labor MPs cross the floor, the legislation will be defeated.

“Opposition Leader Barry O’Farrell now has the perfect excuse to reject these bills.

“The legislation does not specify the details of the sell-off, leaving parliament without a say on the matter. It hands over yet more executive powers to government.

“There is no way Mr O’Farrell and National Leader Andrew Stoner can enforce their five conditions, given the wide-ranging powers the legislation hands over to Premier Iemma and his cabinet,” Dr Kaye said.


For more information:    John Kaye 0407 195 455