Collective Agreement Negotiations
Further to Newsletter No. 47 – 14 December 2011.
The Union has received the formal offer from the employer. However, the offer is significantly different from that the employer was proposing at the bargaining table. As well, there are many questions, points of clarification and omissions in the employer’s proposal to substantially resolve the Relieving Clauses.
The Union sees it as essential (particularly with the present large number of problems being experienced by Relievers) that an expansion of relieving needs quite clear, unambiguous and specific conditions regarding relieving so as to avoid future disputes.
Principle elements of the employer’s offer include:
- 2.7% increase in Wages & Allowances from date of settlement (proposed to be 31 December 2011)
- A further 1.5% on Wages & Allowances from 1 July 2012.
- Collective Agreement to expire 31 December 2012.
- Significant re‐write of Relieving Provisions with an expected consequent significant increase in the number of Relievers.
- Lump Sum payment of $1,200 for every Union member employed at the date of settlement (proposed to be 31 December 2011).
This $1,200 is in lieu of any increase in Wages & Allowances for 2011.
As the Union predicted in Newsletter No. 47 – 14 December, the Union is of the firm view that at least a further bargaining meeting (held with the assistance of a Labour Department Mediator) is necessary for the Union to obtain answers to the many questions members will understandably have regarding the new Relieving positions.
The employer has however required the Union to accept the offer by 31 December 2011 (subject to ratification) otherwise it would disappear.
Consequently the Union has written to the employer advising them that the Union is not in a position to either reject or accept the offer by 31
December 2011 and advising that at least a further bargaining meeting is necessary.
Members will be advised of the employer’s response when received.
Industrial Action
The Union has filed a new Notice of Strike Action, which adds to the existing action:
- A ban on the training of the Recruits to be engaged in Recruits Course RCTPH 1201.
Office Closures - Christmas/New Year
The Union Office Wellington will be closed until 10 January 2012.
The Auckland Office will open on 4 January 2012.
Best Wishes for a Very Happy Christmas and New Year to Members and Families.
