On Friday 18 April 2008 the Department of Health Industrial Liaison Committee meeting was held. The purpose of the DOH Industrial Liaison Committee (ILC) is to provide a consultation mechanism between the DOH management and the recognised health care unions who have members employed across the health portfolio.

The ILC discussed the following key agenda items:

1. FOOD SERVICE FACILITIES REVIEW

Christine Dennis, Director Operational Strategy, Department of Health advised that consultants from Price Waterhouse Coopers had been engaged to provide advice on a future Food Services operating model for the metropolitan hospitals system. The consultancy is part of the planning for the Marjory Jackson Nelson hospital. The outcomes of the consultancy will also be taken into account in the planning and redevelopments of the Glenside Hospital and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. PSA, as one of the key stakeholders will continue to be consulted throughout the process.

2. SA HEALTH RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION PROCESSES

The Department of Health Human Resources unit within workforce development had recently reviewed SA health recruitment and selection processes. The review was undertaken following the release of the Department of Premier and Cabinet Good Practice Guide/Recruitment. PSA expressed concern about no consultation on the Guide from either PSWD or the Department of Health. PSA advised that they will be pursuing this issue through the appropriate process.

3. MENTAL HEALTH REFORM

The first formal Mental Health Industrial Liaison Committee (ILC) was held on 4 April 2008. The framework for the delivery of Services has been finalised. From April 2008 all Statewide Mental Health issues will be addressed through the main Mental Health ILF with Minutes being provided to the Department of Health ILC on a regular basis.

4. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HUMAN RESOURCE VACANCIES

PSA sought advice on the current HR vacancies within the department in respect to the filling of the vacant positions.