Council to cut library hours?

Gosford Council may be looking at cutting the opening hours at Woy Woy and Umina libraries by as much as 10 hours per weekend, according to a union organiser representing local government employees.

United Services Union organiser Mr Luke Hutchinson said the union had written to council on behalf of its members on the matter.

"Council did contact us and stated no changes had yet been made," Mr Hutchinson said.

"If that is the case, and changes are being considered, than we will do what is in the best interest of our members.

"We don't want to see Gosford Council do a repeat to our members of what was seen with the closure of the Erina Occasional Childcare Centre late last year."

Following the closure of the centre before Christmas, Mr Hutchinson stated that the union feared more staff could be affected in light of reports of a $50 million "black hole" in council's budget.

"The USU fears this closure is part of an attempt to cover up mismanagement of crucial financial decisions," Mr Hutchinson stated on December 10.

"And it may not be the last service to bare the brunt.

""The USU will continue to support and represent affected members in dealing with this decision, and will endeavour to make council accountable to the community."

Mr Hutchinson said he believed council was set to discuss the issue in a closed meeting over the coming weeks.

At present, Woy Woy Library is open 9.30am to 2pm on Saturdays and 12pm to 4pm on Sundays while Umina Library is open from 9.30am to 4pm on Saturdays and closed on Sundays.

Clare Graham, 18 Feb 2010 Interviewee: Luke Hutchinson, United Services Union Press release, 10 Dec 20009 Luke Hutchinson, United Services Union