EB 2004 - INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS COMMISSION PROCEEDINGS

An Enterprise Bargaining Conference will be held before Commissioner Doyle in the South Australian Industrial Commission on Wednesday 23 June 2004.

The purpose of the Conference is to attempt to progress negotiations regarding a possible Enterprise Agreement, and follows a decision of DP Hampton that this occur.

It is expected that the outcome of the negotiations, whether agreed or not, between the Government and the PSA, be put to a vote of Public Sector Workers in mid July.

In view of the Minister's past unwillingness to meet with the PSA, this avenue remains one which the PSA is willing to genuinely explore. It can only succeed, however, if the Government is willing to genuinely negotiate.

The PSA suspended all Industrial Action on 9 June 2004, and it is with some concern that the PSA has only today been advised that the Government feels that some actions continued beyond that stage.

It is of further concern that the Government has only today, just prior to the IRC Conference, advised of its intention that PSA Worksite Representatives lose pay for attendance in excess of one hour at the meeting called to inform them of DP Hampton's decision, on 11 June 2004. The PSA intends to raise this matter with Commissioner Doyle.

PSA – FIGHTING FOR A FAIR AND REASONABLE DEAL

PSA Chief Industrial Officer, Peter Christopher Ph: 8205 3200; Email: pgc@cpsu.asn.au