It pays to be united

On Tuesday the 6th of December 2011 Sophie Cotsis, Shadow Minister for Local Government, and Guy Zangari  Member for Fairfield, visited Holroyd City Council.

United Services Union Organiser Sandie Morthen and Local Delegate Raffaele Catanzariti joined both Labor MP’s on a tour that included the Depot Operational Centre, Merrylands Library and Guildford Swim Centre. These visits allowed both Labor MP’s to meet Holroyd City Council Staff and look at Holroyd City Council Operations.

A small delegation along with Labor MP’s Sophie Cotsis and Guy Zangari attended the Council Chambers and were welcomed by Councillor Yvette Whitfield, Mayor of Holroyd and General Manager, Mr Merv Ismay along with Senior Management.

Much discussion took place regarding local issues with Council amalgamations high on the agenda. Other items for discussion included the Pensioner Rebate Scheme, Apprenticeships, Rate Pegging and Infrastructure Funding. This was a great opportunity for both Labor MP’s to visit Holroyd City Council and talk about the problems facing councils in Sydney’s West and the impact amalgamations and outsourcing would have on the community.

High on the agenda were discussions centered around the need for local jobs in Western Sydney, especially the increasing need for apprenticeships, cadetships and traineeships. Also discussions were centered around the opportunities that are available to young people that local government can provide.