Italian water activists start referendum to oppose privatization of water services

(4 March 2010) The Berlusconi government adopted a law which demands of the regional and municipal governments that they reduce their ownership in the water companies. This law is controversial. Many municipalities, EPSU affiliate CGIL-FP and many water activists disagree and will organize a referendum to demand the repeal of the specific article which is the basis for the privatization. The organizers are planning a national demonstration on 20 March. Activisits in many places have established action committees to defend public water. For the calls to the manifestation