THE WAY FORWARD

Negotiations are continuing with the department about the working profile of the new correctional centre at Kempsey and the new women’s prison at Windsor.

At all times hovering in the background is the spectre of privatisation. The Government through Treasury has made it plain that privatisation will follow if agreement on working conditions, etc, is not achieved between the Union and the department.

Cabinet requires a written report from the department by the 16th February 2004. (The Union has sought an extension until 2nd of March 2004).

Matters currently under discussion include the following:

From the Department:

1. Flat payment of all overtime at Kempsey and Dilwynnia with the first figure quoted by the department of $31.50 per hour for all officers whether COVB or POVB.
2. The cashing in of rostered days off on an annual basis with the money paid in December prior to Christmas.

From the Union:

1. The investigation of payment for sick leave or attendance bonuses.
2. The introduction of 12 hour shifts at Kempsey and Dilwynnia in relevant units.
3. The withdrawal of the permanent part-time prison officer proposal.
4. The creation of a 1st Class Correctional Officer at the new centres as the Roster Support Officer.

No agreement has been reached on any of the above matters.

A Special Extraordinary Meeting of the POVB Management Committee involving delegates from each location will be held on the 25th or 26th of February at PSA House before any final agreement can be made.

Paul Jones, Acting Chair
Tony Howen, Country Vice Chair
Brian McCann, Secretary
9 February 2004