Public Service Association(PSA) Worksite Representatives Mike Ainsworth, Chris How, Simon McPhee, Kris Wood & Nathan Scerri attended the June 2008 Community Residential Care(CRC) Consultative Committee meeting. The Committee meets with the CRC Manager and provides members with a great opportunity to speak directly with management about many ideas and issues. The following is a brief outline of some of the key points that were discussed with management:

• New Units

Strong concerns were raised by Worksite Representatives regarding the construction of the two new Units. These concerns included the large number of residents & high risk of contamination of residents in congregate care and staffing ratios. PSA members do not believe these units provide appropriate accommodation and are concerned by the Department's breach of the Mullighan Reports' recommendations. The PSA will be raising this matter more formally with the Chief Executive.

• Meal Breaks

Meal Break Workplace Flexibility Agreement for Secure Care is nearing completion within DFC. Human Resource(HR) & Public Sector Workforce Division(PSWD) have agreed upon a proposal. The proposal protects existing entitlements and rosters (including the PDO) and includes the addition of a crib break. CRC will be the next unit to undergo this process and it is expected that an outcome will be achieved in a timely manner.

• Special Investigations

PSA will contact Special Investigations Unit to organise a Question and Answer session with Worksite Representatives and delegates from the unit. It is hoped that this session will better inform members about their rights and the Special Investigations process.

• Lochiel Park Sheds

The PSA expressed it's disappointment that no progress has been made in relation to building sheds to protect members' vehicles from being damaged by residents. The PSA has requested an official response by the 27th of July 2008.

• Staff Ratios

The current staffing ratio of 1:4 was reported as becoming increasingly difficult to manage client behaviors, which are becoming more frequently challenging. Members reported there is need for an increase in Full Time Equivalent(FTE) numbers within all Units. This will be followed up with Finance Dept at next Non-Family Based Care meeting. Should no progress be made on this issue the PSA will meet with members at each unit to discuss ways to achieve this goal.

These points are some of many items discussed at the Consultative Committee. For a copy of the minutes please contact your Worksite Representative. The next meeting will be held on the 28th of July 2008.

If members have any questions please contact your Worksite Representative or Industrial Officer Jean-Guy Townsend on 8205 3233 or jgt@cpsu.asn.au

PSA WORKING FOR MEMBERS IN FAMILIES SA