Public Service Association (PSA) members attended a meeting on the 20th February 2008 to discuss the current status of safety measures being implemented by the Department for Families and Communities (DFC) at Cavan Training Centre. Members expressed considerable concern that no solid commitment has been given to ensure the on-going safety of members and residents at the Centre. Subsequently, the following motion was passed unanimously:

"That this meeting of PSA members at Cavan Youth Training Centre demand that DFC commit to ensuring the safety of staff and residents in accordance with the Government's requirement of safety in the workplace for Public Sector workers.

Members acknowledge the action taken to date by DFC.

Members find it totally unacceptable that the Security and Safety report, undertaken by Stuart Arbon, has not been made available to members prior to this meeting.

Members require the following to ensure their safety in the workplace:

• Security and Safety report to be made available prior to COB 22nd February 2008

• Interim staffing arrangements to be made ongoing by 22nd February 2008

• That costed Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) be purchased immediately

• Personal Protective Equipment training be provided once purchasing is complete

• Interim measures of 1 room per unit to be modified accordingly by 22nd March 2008

• That the Security and Safety report is to be considered and implemented appropriately once it is received.

Should no acceptable commitment be forthcoming by 22nd February 2008, members will embark on an Industrial Campaign to ensure their safety."

This motion has been passed on to the Chief Executive(CE) of DFC and PSA members expect a speedy response.

If you have any other questions or queries please do not hesitate to contact your PSA Representatives or PSA Industrial Officer, Jean-Guy Townsend on 8205 3233 or email jgt@cpsu.asn.au

PSA MEMBERS WHO STAND TOGETHER, WIN TOGETHER!