CPSU has been negotiating with management since November last year to reach agreement on a new CA for all DPS employees. Thanks to the support of staff who have chosen to be union members, we have been able to progress a number of your issues.
Regrettably, a number of sticking point means it is now unlikely that your next CA will be finalised by 1 July. All staff are encouraged to attend an important meeting with your union representatives to discuss options from here. Staff who are not yet members are invited to sign-up to join in and support efforts for a better deal at work.
DPS CA meeting for all staff
12.30pmTues 10 June 2008
1S4
Outstanding issues:
Pay - Management’s final offer of 4.2% per annum over the 3 year life of the proposed agreement remains. With the Canberra CPI running at 4.6% compounded by spiralling petrol prices, members are asking if 4.2% will cut it?
Super - DPS will not commit to an employer contribution rate of 15.4% for all DPS employees, regardless of fund.
Parental Support Leave - Management has rejected our claim for 6 weeks Parental Support - unlike Geoscience Australia which has recently agreed to this.
Flextime for EL1s - existing TOIL provisions for EL employees are not working. EL1s in the Senate have a higher base rate, access to flextime and an entitlement to payment of a House Sitting Allowance worth approx $180 a night. A similar payment is available to ELs in Reps.
Flextime for Committees - DPS is also attempting to cap the amount of hours that can accrue as flextime by employees who are required to travel in support of parliamentary committees.
The ‘sessionalisation’ of DPS’ workforce - DPS are proposing to introduce provisions covering the terms and conditions of Sessional employees. Belatedly the Department has agreed that where Sessional employees are required to work on days that are not part of their specified work days, they will be paid at overtime rates. Union members have raised concerns over the potential for this new employment category to impact on the level of full time ongoing positions across DPS.
Guides -failure of DPS to pay an allowance to Guides in Visitor Services who speak and conduct tours in a foreign language.
DPS’ attitude is that the ancillary benefits of working in Parliament House such as free parking and gym membership offset CA terms & conditions that are comparable with other APS agencies. DO YOU AGREE?
