OPPOSITION Leader Deb Frecklington has slammed Redlands MP Kim Richards for justifying a water price increase.
During a visit to the Redlands on Tuesday, Ms Frecklington said when politicians knew an issue was hurting residents, they could stand up for them or back the government.
“Kim Richards, your local member, decided to justify the decision,” Ms Frecklington said.
“That stance blows my hair back.”
Last week in Parliament the LNP pushed for a water price increases, recommended by the Queensland Competition Authority, to be rejected.
Their motion failed, with 47 Labor members voting against, and 43 members in favour.
QCA has recommended Redlands face an increase of more than nine per cent, or $88, over three years.
“Redlands was one area we knew the recommendations would really adversely affect,” Ms Frecklington said.
“The government needs to realise cost of living is a massive issue.
“We [Queensland] have got the equal worst unemployment rate at 6.5 per cent in Australia. We’ve got the lowest business confidence. We’ve got people who can’t afford to pay their bills.
“I don’t think now is the time to slap people with higher water charges.”
Ms Frecklington said the government could have rejected the QCA recommendations for the people of Redlands and others in south-east Queensland affected.
“Unfortunately we've had the opposite.”
Ms Richards defended her position saying it was the same price path adopted by the LNP when Ms Frecklington was assistant treasurer to Campbell Newman.
“They refused to change it when they could, and now they’re in opposition, they are making hollow promises,” Ms Richards said.
“I understand that people are concerned about cost of living issues but they also expect a reliable, safe water supply.
“The SEQ Water Grid, which Redlands is part of, ensures all south-east Queenslanders have one of Australia’s most secure water supplies.”
