The Public Sector-wide stoppage on Friday, 26 March 2004 will go ahead, with many thousands of members across all Agencies preparing to not attend work. Many members will also participate in pickets and protests in both Adelaide and regional locations.

The Government continues to say that the offer already rejected by members is “fair and reasonable.” Members have determined that it is clearly not.

PLANNING FOR 26 MARCH 2004

Question: How do I stop work?

Answer: Unless you are involved in a protest or a picket, enjoy a sleep in. There is no obligation on you to do anything further.

All members covered by the Parity negotiation should stop work on Friday, unless specifically exempted by PSA.

Question: In the past we have not been permitted to take leave during industrial action. This time my Agency has put out advice that 'employees may make application prior to the 26 March 2004 seeking approval for absence on that day; or may be absent on that day for duty outside approved times, or without approval.” (Recreation leave, Flexitime, TOIL etc.). What does this mean?

Answer: While unsure of the exact reasons, this appears to be an attempt to manipulate statistics so that people absent on 26 March do not show on the Australian Bureau of Statistics Return as taking industrial action. If you can use this provision to your advantage, do so, but do not come into work on 26 March.

PICKET LINE PROTOCOLS
1. The aim of a picket line is to peacefully prevent the entry of others (including non- striking workers) to a location where staff have stopped work.
2. A picket line becomes official when the PSA authorises it as a Union picket line.
3. There is a difference between people perhaps standing at a door handing out leaflets etc. and a picket line. At a picket line members involved will ask those approaching not to cross the picket line.

Members of other unions have been advised:
Do not cross (or attempt to cross) the picket line. Whereas for some persons others denying them access to their workplace might be frustrating, the reality is that after the event is over everyone has to work together again.  It is an historical fact that very often the aftermath of events arising from picket lines can live on bitterly for years in workplaces well after people have forgotten what the actual dispute was about in the first place!  Responsible employers know that and should themselves actually discourage the crossing of picket lines.

25/3/04

Should you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact PSA Acting Chief Industrial Officer Gayle Peak on 8205 3288 or email gp@cpsu.asn.au

STOP WORK - 26 MARCH 2004

PSA SECURING A FAIR DEAL