PPS/CIE UPDATE

Issuing Medication in Prisons
As a result of the recent open communication to Department of Corrections Senior Management, PPS National HR Manager Osie Osborne has contacted CANZ with an invitation to discuss our members' concerns. We will, of course, take advantage of this offer and a meeting has been scheduled for early next week. It is our belief that CANZ and PPS will have a significant amount of common ground in respect of this issue and we look forward to a positive outcome. As always, I will keep you posted regarding progress.

As a matter of interest, a curious side issue has developed insofar as PPS South Island Regional Manager Paul Monk deemed it appropriate to respond to the open communication to Senior Management in the Department of Corrections. This is somewhat curious from a CANZ perspective, because in our model of the world, "Senior Management" begins much higher up the corporate ladder than the not-so-dizzy heights of Regional Manager. Having said that, we wouldn't want to stifle initiative from those with ambition, so I would like to personally thank Mr. Monk for taking the time and trouble to advise us of his opinion.

CIE Progression Review
The CIE Progression Review team will be meeting again towards the end of February to consider applications for movement within the salary scale. This review provides members with the last opportunity to progress and receive backdating to 1 July 2002! All subsequent meetings of the Review Team will consider applications on a "business as usual" basis and successful applicants will progress in accordance with the date of approval.

There still appears to be some confusion regarding the submission of applications to the Review Team, so I will attempt to clarify the matter for all concerned. All applications from members who have met the necessary criteria must be forwarded to the Review Team for their consideration. Although Site Managers are required to make a recommendation, they do not have the authority to withhold applications. These must be forwarded to the Review Team without exception and must include a recommendation that is to be accompanied by supporting evidence.

This has been an ongoing bone of contention for CANZ and be assured that any further instances of non-compliance in this area will generate a dispute and application for compliance and/or a Personal Grievance.

Regards,
Brian Davies
National Organiser