The Public Services International sends this message of solidarity, sympathy and support to members of PSI affiliated unions, your families, neighbours and co-workers who are suffering so terribly in the unprecedented flooding that Australia is experiencing on both sides of the country. We understand that wildfires are also being battled in Western Australia. We salute you – the public sector workers – who are struggling bravely to cope with the challenges brought on by these mounting disasters, and share with you in grief for losses you or your families have suffered.
We know that many thousands of state public sector workers are currently working in emergency mode – 24 hours a day – saving lives, helping the countless people immediately affected, and protecting the public infrastructure.
We understand that the flood crisis has intensified, that there have been tragic deaths, that many people are missing, and thousands of people are stranded and cut off from their homes and workplaces. An enormous personal cost will be borne by the people who have lost loved ones, livelihoods, homes or workplaces. While the public cost of rebuilding infrastructure such as roads, bridges, hospitals, water services, power generation and railways will amount to billions of dollars, the personal costs can never be fully accounted for.
Whenever flood, fire, earthquakes or other natural catastrophes strike around the world, public sector workers like you are first to help on the frontline, though often suffering the same losses as the general public. On behalf of PSI members worldwide, I extend heartfelt thanks, admiration and acknowledgement for your courageous and tireless efforts. We wish you much strength and fortitude in the face of these challenges.
We urge other PSI affiliates to contribute at this stage to the flood relief effort in the state of Queensland through the Queensland Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal by visiting the website at www.qld.gov.au/floods/donate.html.
In Solidarity, Peter Waldorff - PSI General Secretary
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