Last night Council of Canadians chairperson Maude Barlow spoke to a capacity audience of 250 people at the St. Ann’s Academy auditorium in Victoria.
As noted by CUPE, “With a decision on sewage treatment expected in early 2010, Maude Barlow’s experience working with communities who have faced and resisted privatization schemes is timely.”
In terms of background, “Since 2006, the Capital Regional District in Greater Victoria has been working to develop a plan for new sewage treatment. One of the key issues facing residents is how the new treatment will be financed, managed and operated. Public surveys and consultations show overwhelming support for public, not private, sewage treatment. But the B.C. government, which is a big advocate of privatization, has told elected officials in Greater Victoria that they have to look at the privatization option. The final decision, however, is in the hands of local politicians, who have the right to opt for public sewage treatment.”
For additional context, please see the Victoria chapter’s website at http://www.victoriacouncilofcanadians.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=70&Itemid=1.
Please also see http://cupe.ca/communications/maude-barlow-victoria-november-20 and www.keepitpublic.ca.
