The PSA and the EPA appeared before the Industrial Relations Commission of New South Wales (IRC) on 6 February 2020 regarding the rollout of the EPA Executive Realignment and the implications it has had on our members.
The PSA advised the IRC that:
- on 31 January 2020 at a meeting between the PSA and EPA Management, the PSA was given a clear undertaking there would be no impact upon staff until further consultation occurred between the PSA and the EPA and that this would be confirmed to staff through a bulletin by close of business on 31 January 2020;
- on 4 February 2020, PSA members had confirmed at a meeting that significant changes had, in fact, taken place since the new Executive Structure was introduced on 3 February 2020.
The PSA further advised the IRC that this was a major realignment within the EPA and for that reason the PSA seeks the following documents be drawn up:
- A Changed Management Plan.
- Boundary maps with dotted lines or otherwise.
- Areas of responsibilities for operational directors in both regional and metropolitan areas.
The IRC indicated the PSA’s request was not unreasonable. The PSA now expects the above documents to be provided before the implementation of any new structure in order to conciliate the dispute.
If conciliation fails, a “certificate of failed conciliation” would be issued by the IRC and the matter would thereafter be listed for Arbitration.
The matter is listed for a Report Back on 14 February 2020, subsequent to a meeting with EPA Management which is scheduled to take place on 12 February 2020.
Ultimately, the PSA is attempting to ensure that proper consultation takes place between the EPA and all PSA members.
The PSA encourages feedback from members prior to the scheduled meeting with the PSA and the EPA Management on 12 February 2020.
Your feedback may be sent directly to David Bell, EPA delegate. David will also be in attendance at the meeting on Wednesday 12 February 2020, which is prior to the Report Back listed on Friday 14 February 2020.
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