: News Article

Push Polling Water Concerns

07/01/2003

NQ Water is set to move against the organisers of a bogus water survey carried out in Townsville and Thuringowa.

NQ Water has received reports from residents that ‘telemarketers’ are running down the quality of local water supplies with the express purpose of selling water filters.

It was an example of ‘push polling’ said NQ Water Chief Executive Officer, Ken Diehm.

"This ‘survey’ has no other purpose than to sell a product that residents don’t need and create confusion in the minds of the public about water quality," said Mr Diehm.

"In reality, our water quality is very high. We recently tested tap water and filtered water and found higher levels of trace elements in the filtered water.

"We are a member of the local community and are concerned about public perception. Our concerns about inappropriate sales techniques will be referred to Consumer Affairs."

NQ Water supplies bulk water to four customers: The Townsville and Thuringowa City Councils and the BHP-Billiton Yabulu and Sun Metals refineries.
The service was of an extremely high standard said Mr Diehm.

"NQ Water works under one of the strictest regulatory regimes of any industry in the country," he said. "We are also voluntary members of all professional water associations and work to the highest standards set by these peak industry bodies."

"The work includes constant monitoring and surveillance of water sources and the introduction of management guidelines that are designed to ensure good supply."

"Any suggestions to the contrary should be viewed with extreme suspicion."

Contact:
Mr Diehm is available for comment on 4726 0000 or 0438 192 082.
Media Liaison Robert Dark is on 0417 623 156.

© 2003 NQ Water