On Thursday 4 October 2007, the Public Service Association and Public Sector Workforce Division of the Department of the Premier & Cabinet (acting on behalf of the Department of Health) appeared before Commissioner Doyle of the South Australian Industrial Relations Commission.

The PSA requested the Commission's intervention following the Department's failure to correct its own misguided written documentation relating to the agreement reached in August 2007 to end the dentist dispute. Specifically, the Department, in its August offer which was accepted by members, was put upon the basis that it constituted an increase in base salaries for all purposes.

However, the Department has been recently stating in writing that the base salary was not inclusive of the recent agreed increases for the calculation of on call, penalty and recall payments as well payment in lieu of leave on termination.

Such a statement is in direct contradiction of the agreement reached between the parties in August 2007. Following Thursday's Voluntary Conference, Commissioner Doyle issued a statement which including the following:

"My clear understanding of the agreement was that the increase which, for convenience, was characterised as an attraction and retention allowance....and was to be added to the base rate to apply for all purposes."

The PSA expects the Agency to ensure the agreement, in its entirety, is honoured.

Secondly, the PSA also raised the matter of DSO3 Clinical Leaders. Again, the agreement reached included that all DSO3 Clinical Leaders would be provided a 7% increase in addition to the 10% increase to all Dentists.

However, it has become apparent that SADS management wish to take it upon themselves to determine which DSO3 Clinical leaders will be provided the additional payment.

There is no ambiguity. All DSO3 Clinical leaders must be provided the increase. The PSA is committed to ensuring all facets of the agreement are honoured.

Should you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact PSA Acting Assistant Chief Industrial Officer Simon Johnson on spj@cpsu.asn.au or 8205 3294

9 October 2007