Key issues identified by Mr Lucas were:

“My approach in looking at this Bill is the need to develop a system that is as fair as possible... for employees... and to manage the business of the Government of the day.”

Questions were put on notice in respect to Executive numbers and the impact of loss of tenure and fall back for Executives.

“It has been the policy of the Government and the current Commission to reduce the role and responsibilities of the Commissioner's office. Role has been gutted.”

Mr Lucas highlighted past cases where the Commissioner for Public Employment had been required to investigate actions by Chief Executives and had serious doubts if this could occur in the future under the provision of the Public Sector Bill.

Minister Gago, on behalf of the Government, restated the view that Chief Executives should be able to terminate the employment of staff.

PSA Chief Industrial Officer Peter Christopher on 8205 3220 or e-mail pgc@cpsu.asn.au.