Under siege Christchurch Labour MPs will hold an online forum to defend the Government’s controversial Three Waters reforms, though a city councillor who called for a public debate remains sceptical.
MacDonald, from the right-leaning Independent Citizens faction, had lobbied Pallett for a debate following the Government’s decision to push through plans to transfer drinking, stormwater and wastewater networks from local authority control to four new water entities in spite of widespread opposition.
Minister of Local Government Nanaia Mahuta’s announcement on October 28 means the city council surrenders $6.9 billion of water-related assets – and $1.1 billion of associated debt – to the Government, who will also make a $122.4 million payment to the council in 2024.
MacDonald had sought a discussion with Pallett via the Avonhead-Russley Facebook page, which has 4200 members.
“I wanted to have it set up there so those members could submit their questions. So many people in there are wanting that sort of engagement,” he said.
“I’m not quite yet convinced that her and Duncan talking about how bad councils have failed is going to be the most healthy way to inform the public.
Pallett acknowledged MacDonald’s request for a discussion but it coincided with the announcement of Covid-19 cases in her electorate.
“I explained to him that my focus was on the urgent need to support our community through this very challenging time,” she said.
“I have been engaging with local businesses, supporting constituents and working with the CDHB (Canterbury District Health Board) to organise vaccination events, alongside my existing commitments.”
“As this is not a single electorate issue we decided it was most appropriate for us as MPs to hold a public Zoom to enable people to express their views and hear more about the Three Waters proposal,” Pallett said.
“Details on how to attend will be made available on our respective social media pages and via email for those interested.”
Pallett, Webb and other city Labour MPs Megan Woods (Wigram), Poto Williams (Christchurch East) and Tracey McLennan (Banks Peninsula) all backed the proposed reforms while left and right-leaning factions on council are united in their opposition.
