Protesters Claim Victory Following News That Local

[libya 115]

SOURCE: Pattaya One News: July 4th 2008

Protesters claim victory following news that local Water Treatment Plant will not be privatized.

On Monday we reported on a protest outside a Hotel in North Pattaya relating to, plans to privatize the Water Treatment Plant here in Pattaya. Residents feared that the transfer to private ownership would see a sharp rise in water prices.

Since Monday a war of words has been taking place and on Thursday our office received a fax from the Water Authority suggesting the protesters were feeding protesters and the press with false information regarding the plans.

On Friday Morning a further protest took place at the Water Treatment Plant located to the East of Pattaya. An announcement was made by Khun Mongkol, the Chief of Banglamung District and confirmed by Khun Itipon, the Mayor of Pattaya that a decision has been made not to sell-off the plant which will remain under the control of local authorities despite an apparent lack of budget to maintain the plant. The protesters are claiming a victory and are extremely satisfied with the outcome of their demonstrations.