CREDIT WHERE CREDIT'S DUE!

It has been said (one hundred percent correctly) that I'm quick to point out PPS's indiscretions on the frequent occasions that they occur, but I'm also a firm believer in documenting the highlights associated with management practice. Accordingly, we should not let the recent "Invercargill Incident" go by without acknowledging the much -appreciated support of Senior Management.

The formal and informal acknowledgement of Chief Executive Mark Byers, Regional Manager Paul Monk and Site Manager Jeff Mills had a significant impact on the morale of all staff at Invercargill Prison, but it was especially well-received by those officers who were directly involved in the incident. As I've said before, Prison Staff accept potential danger as an integral part of their daily working environment. There is no doubt, however, that the timely extension of praise, positive reinforcement and moral support from those "at the top" goes a long way towards making what can be an extremely difficult job a little more palatable.

If what we have observed from Senior Management at both Invercargill and Hawkes Bay in recent times is a sign of what we can expect in the future, then it bodes well for a general improvement in Union/Management relations. At the very least, we should accept it as a positive beginning to yet another new year and, as I said at the start, give credit where credit's due!

Good onya Mark, Paul and Jeff!

In closing, I hope that all Prison employees and their families enjoy a happy and prosperous new year.

p.s. Take special note of the "prosperous" bit Mark, because it's CEA time again soon!

Regards,
Brian Davies
National Organiser