CHIEF EXECUTIVES CAN SACK STAFF SAYS MINISTER

The PSA identified key concerns with the Bill, including:

• Ability of Agency Chief Executives to terminate employment.

• Absence of a Grievance and Appeals Tribunal

• Lack of ability for the new Grievance Review Commission (GRC) to determine Reclassification Appeals

• Suspension to be without pay, compared to the current option of with or without pay

• The Code of Conduct is not limited to employment related matters

• Regulations are excessively used rather than the Act defining specific issues e.g. Clause 53 (1)(f) allows for termination for 'any other ground prescribed by the regulations'

• Executives currently on tenured fall back may lose such tenure

• The role of the Commissioner for Public Employment is dramatically reduced.

The Minister indicated a willingness to consider changes, but significant PSA concerns remain. The changes agreed to by the Minister are to allow suspension with or without pay, to remove the reference to regulations for termination as referred to above and for Reclassification Appeals to be heard by the GRC. An alternative form of words regarding the Code of Conduct are to be provided by the Minister to the PSA for consideration, together with confirmation of the matters put forward by Government today.

The PSA has ongoing significant concerns and will continue to meet with the Opposition and non-Government Parties in the Upper House. The Opposition has already advised that it will amend the Legislation and other Non-Government members of the Legislative Council have indicated concerns with the Government's proposals.

Parliamentary debate will resume on 24 - 26 March. Members are encouraged to attend the debate. PSA Executive has authorised members stopping work to attend if they are unable to attend by other means.

Should you have any queries please contact PSA Chief Industrial Officer Peter Christopher on 8205 3220 or e-mail pgc@cpsu.asn.au.