CANZ and CIE representatives met again today to continue negotiations for a new CEA. The day was conducted in a “business as usual” manner, insofar as CIE commented on CANZ’s proposed package and identified the issues that are important to them.

Although there are a few significant differences between our respective positions, it is fair to say that there is also much common ground. Accordingly, they day was spent in a constructive manner, as the parties identified areas of commonality in order to isolate the issues that need more work. As a result, we now have much of the proposed settlement “ticked off” (subject to endorsement by the members) and can now concentrate our efforts on issues of contention. It is, after all, a process of negotiation and both parties are committed to “good faith” bargaining and are keen to reach consensus. To put it bluntly;
If you’re not negotiating, you’re not making progress!

Contentious Issues
It will come as no surprise to you that the main points of difference between us can be succinctly summed up in two words; time and money! As usual, the employer wants less leave and pay, whereas CANZ wants more! To be fair, the employer’s salary offer for current staff could be considered by some as reasonable, but it comes at a price and the price is “grandparenting”!

Over the next few days I will be circulating the following documents for your consideration and comparison:
1. CANZ Draft Proposal (based on membership submissions).
2. CIE Draft Proposal.
3. A documented comparison highlighting the main points of difference (including proposed grandparenting) and the advantages/disadvantages of the respective proposals.

We will then be holding a series of workplace meetings between 16th and 27th August in order to discuss the respective proposals and obtain membership feedback. This feedback will be delivered directly to CIE representatives when negotiations recommence on 31 August.

The schedule of workplace meetings will be documented in the ‘Comparisons” update (no later than Friday) and we encourage members to record their issues/concerns/recommendations for discussion and resolution during these meetings.

Yours in unity,

Brian Davies
CANZ National Organiser