After much “tearing of hair” and ‘gnashing of teeth”, I am pleased to announce that CANZ and the Department of Corrections have finally signed an agreed, stand alone National Health and Safety Plan in respect of Employee Participation. Those of you that have kept up to date with what is best described as our very own political soap opera will be aware that the major points of contention in the process were matters of principle. The main issue of difference is probably encapsulated in the fact that the Department required a multi-party agreement and CANZ believed that the H&S Amendment Act permitted the development of a CANZ/DoC stand-alone document.

To be fair, when the mediation process began both parties cooperated fully and concessions were made by all as we pursued a genuine shared desire for a workable plan. The result of our concerted joint effort is the development of a plan that is CANZ/DoC specific and in accordance with the provisions of the applicable legislation. Both parties are both pleased and relieved that the process has ended amicably and we look forward to the coming elections and subsequent introduction of the new system.

It is important that all employees with an interest in Health and Safety put their names forward for the “employee representative” positions, as H&S is not a union-specific issue; it is a matter that impacts on everyone in the workplace. Although CANZ is keen to have as many formally appointed representatives as possible, we are more than happy to cooperate with other organisations and unrepresented appointees as we work towards continuous improvement of workplace Health and Safety.

The election process will be outlined in the coming weeks and we urge all CANZ members to take an interest, participate and cooperate in order to ensure that all available vacancies are filled. We would suggest that a good starting point would be the identification of CANZ Health and Safety representatives in every Unit and work area (offices/industries) in the country. This will clearly provide us with a sound base upon which to build an election strategy.

Once the elections are over and the representatives are identified, training will be provided by the employer in accordance with the provisions of the Act. The difficult part is behind us and the future can only bring improvement, so get involved and get nominated. Don’t forget, you have to be in to win!!!!

Watch this space for further information!

Regards,

Brian Davies
National Organiser
CANZ