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Local government

Public Service Association Supports Return to In-Person Voting and Centralized Election Management

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Public Service Association (PSA) is advocating for a return to in-person voting in local elections and for the Electoral Commission to take over running and publicizing these elections. The PSA, which represents over 11,000 local government workers, believes that private companies should not be responsible for managing local body elections, citing concerns over accountability and the importance of local democracy. The organization also emphasizes the need for increased voter participation and a more engaged voting public, stating that in-person voting will help to achieve this goal.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Public Service Association (PSA) supports the return to in-person voting in local elections, citing concerns over low turnout rates.
  • The PSA believes that private companies are not suitable to manage local body elections, as they are not publicly accountable.
  • The organization is calling on the central government to give the Electoral Commission the role of running and publicizing local elections, with proper resourcing to do so.
  • The PSA notes that the Electoral Commission has a track record of delivering parliamentary elections, and is therefore well-suited to take on this responsibility.
  • Local bodies currently contract out election management to private firms, which the PSA believes is not in the best interests of local democracy.
  • The PSA is Aotearoa New Zealand's largest trade union, representing over 95,000 workers across various sectors.
  • Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary of the PSA, emphasizes the importance of in-person voting in boosting voter participation and engagement.

Statistics:

  • Over 11,000 local government workers are represented by the Public Service Association (PSA).
  • The PSA has a total membership of over 96,000 people.
  • Local bodies currently contract out election management to private firms.
  • The Electoral Commission has a track record of delivering parliamentary elections.

Sources:

  • "PSA Supports Return To In-Person Voting at Local Elections" (Multiple Sources)

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