In Defence of Public Services

9 Jul 2009

Debate during the morning of Day Three was dominated by strong and spirited speeches in defence of public services and public sector workers.

A number of speakers condemned the concerted attacks on the public service from sections of the 'commentariat' and proclaimed themselves proud of the work they did and proud of the vital social services they delivered. Motions on the public health service (41), protecting frontline health services (46) and supporting the provision of public services (44) were passed by delegates.

Delegates also passed a motion calling for Congress to press governments North and South to introduce a "moratorium on the future use of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs)/ Private Finance Initiatives (PFIs) to deliver any public service infrastructure or functions."

The motion (42) also called for a review of all PPP/ PFI projects to ensure all such functions are "undertaken again by accountable public service staff." An Executive Council request to remit the motion was defeated.

Conference also heard condemnation of Performance Management Systems and the shabby regulatory regime that existed in the financial services sector, both of which played a significant role in collapsing the financial system.