Job cuts 'unlikely' after Qld shires split IT'S unlikely jobs will be axed when four Queensland shires split from their regional councils, Local Government Minister David Crisafulli says. Residents in the shires of Douglas, Mareeba, Livingstone and Noosa voted in favour of reversing the amalgamations on Saturday. Mr Crisafulli says staff numbers will be worked out between transfer managers appointed to each shire and the chief executives of the regional councils. "As the driving reasons for amalgamations were staffing efficiencies and cost reductions, it's highly unlikely fewer workers will be needed," he told AAP. However, he added: "I will arbitrate any issues if required." The Services Union says it has called on the councils and government to agree on a number of measures to safeguard jobs. Queensland Treasury Corporation estimates the cost of breaking away will be $13.7 million for Noosa, $10 million for Livingstone, $8.2 million for Mareeba and $8.1 million for Douglas. Costs will be passed on to ratepayers. Elections will be held towards the end of the year and the new councils will start operating from January 1, 2014.