The Public Service Association (PSA) said the Minns Government’s announced planned job cuts for the state’s Environment Protection Authority (EPA) come at a time when the body’s services are increasingly vital.

“We have faecial matter washing up on beaches, high lead content in the air in Broken Hill and PFAS chemicals throughout the state,” said General Secretary Stewart Little. “If ever there was a time to highlight the importance of the work carried out by the EPA, it would be now.”

The planned cuts are expected to see about 70 jobs lost.

“In addition, the everyday work of the EPA will be affected,” said Mr Little. “This is the body investigating asbestos and tyre dumping and running vital services such as the Return and Earn recycling scheme.

“Minister Penny Sharpe needs to announce the cuts will not take place.”