News Flash

Recently the PSA became aware of an article in The Courier newspaper regarding the future of the Dairy at The Flaxley Research Centre. Despite clear consultative principles within the South Australian Government Wages Parity (Salaried) Enterprise Agreement 2006, the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) chose to ignore these requirements.

The Enterprise Agreement requires employee representatives will be given the opportunity to adequately consult with the people they represent in the workplace, in relation to any proposed changes that may affect employees' working conditions or the services employees provide.

Subsequently the PSA has advised the Chief Executive of PIRSA of a dispute pursuant to the Agreement. It is unacceptable that a Directorate of PIRSA (i.e. SARDI) continues to progress with workplace change without meeting its obligations to consult with the very Union that represents these affected workers.

The PSA is more than willing to meet with Management to obtain a satisfactory resolution. However, meaningful discussion will only occur if the employer is genuine in its consultation processes.

The PSA is committed to representing the best interests of its members. The PSA will not tolerate the use of local media to advise of workplace change in lieu of the requirements of the Enterprise Agreement.

25 November 2009