An Industrial Relations Commission Conference was held before Commissioner Doyle on Monday, 23 August 2004 to report back on developments,

PSA advised the Commission of the ballot outcome, where the Government's proposal was overwhelmingly rejected. PSA also advised that it had written to the Minister seeking to recommence negotiations. In addition, the Commission was advised of problems with the ballot process.

The Government advised that it had notified the Commission that it wished to proceed with its Award application, and that this matter was listed before Deputy President Hampton on Wednesday, 25 August 2004.

In an amazing feat of gymnastics Government advised the Commission that the Award application should proceed because no further prospect existed of reaching an Agreement, while at the same time advising that it had put forward its best offer but was still willing to continue negotiations under a process chaired by the Commission.

At Wednesday's Hearing before DP Hampton PSA will not oppose the making of an Award as a safety net, while putting forward the case for an interim Award to be effective from 1 October 2004 while the full case is being run.

It is expected that the full case will be heard by a Full Bench and could take many months. It is for this reason that PSA will be pursuing an interim Award to provide for an interim pay increase and increased paid maternity leave with effect from October 2004.

The Commission did not make any recommendations at the Conference on Monday, 23 August 2004 regarding industrial action. Consideration by PSA of future action will be determined at a later date.

   
  23 August 2004