Recently the Fire Service has advised members of their intention to undertake a survey of all personnel in May/June regarding what they think of the Fire Service, and conducted by Colmar Brunton.
The Union was advised of this intention at a meeting on 29 March. At that meeting the Union expressed serious concern regarding the proposal.
These concerns also included the cost of the project – some $50,000 – and this at a time when there is a Joint Working Party on Cost Containment.
The Fire Service advised that the draft questions would be forwarded to the Union for consideration and that Colmar Brunton would be happy to meet with the Union to discuss the project. This has not yet happened.
However, if the questions are along the lines as in the Fire Service information, then the Union and members would have every reason to believe its initial concerns are justified.
You have all been through a similar process – called facilitation/focus groups.
The Union understands that some members (particularly in Auckland) have been contacted to assist in the development of specific questions. These members have expressed their serious misgivings to Auckland Local officials.
The Union’s strong recommendation is for members to have nothing to do with the development of questions, or anything else to do with this survey at this stage.
A specific recommendation to members regarding participation in the survey will be given when the survey questions have been considered.
