Munster Express Online

Dear Editor,

The Waterford Council of Trade Unions has either misunderstood or deliberately chosen to mis-represent and take out of context my assertion that its continued objection to the KRM Development does not represent the workers of Waterford. Whilst having no desire to get into a ping-pong encounter with WCTU, I find myself genuinely surprised by such over-reaction (as reported in this newspaper’s Weekender edition last week). However, I stand by my comments and judging by the response that I have received, many people think I am correct in this. To paraphrase Shakespeare, methinks perhaps the WCTU doth protest too much!

That is not to take from the fundraising efforts of the WCTU (to which I made no reference at all). The generous people of Waterford carry out many good works, under many banners, but for the most part they neither seek nor want acknowledgement, nor do they seek to gain politically themselves from their involvement. However, if it clarifies matters I am happy to acknowledge the good work of the members and supporters of the WCTU, but on the KRM issue I still maintain that the Executive is not acting in the interests of the workers of this city and beyond.

I have no problem with planning objections in the main and see them as part of the planning process. The problem I have is that the WCTU has taken something upon themselves for which they have no mandate or responsibility and which is anti-worker. No amount of muddying the issue will change that. It isn’t that there are objections per se, it is that WCTU is purporting to represent the workers on this one, which it doesn’t. WCTU doesn’t seem to understand the distinction between its Executive and a political party.

Perhaps it will become clearer why WCTU is taking political stands and ones which individual members of the Executive will seek to benefit from during next year’s local elections. People should be aware of the full truth and of everyone’s motives. At least then they can judge for themselves.

Councillor Mary Roche

City Hall, Waterford