ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT 7
DELAY IN CERTIFICATION
On 20 March 2006 the Association advised members (newsletter QF 11-06) the ballot result supporting the new Enterprise Agreement and an application would be made to the Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC) for certification of the Agreement.
Following the application a hearing was set for 23 March 2006.
Prior to the commencement of certification proceedings a third party sought to intervene to stop the certification process on behalf of two Qantas Short Haul Flight Attendants. They argued that certification should be delayed to allow arguments to be put on behalf of their clients regarding alleged discriminatory clauses “rostering arrangements” within the proposed agreement.
Not withstanding opposition by the Association and Qantas to the intervention the Commission (AIRC) exercised discretion to allow the intervention and set further dates covering process and hearing. What is particularly disappointing about the delay in certification is the arguments mounted relate to pre-existing clauses and other avenues were available to these individuals.
Members need to be clear that your Association does not accept that the clauses are discriminatory and as such certification should proceed. We will strenuously oppose this application.
Members need to be aware that until the above matter has been resolved then the various initiatives, including pay increases, contained within the proposed agreement, cannot be implemented or actioned until certification has been granted by the AIRC.
Regardless of whether you supported the proposed agreement or not members should be confident that we will leave no stone unturned to ensure all your “rostering arrangements” are protected and not changed without you being given an opportunity to accept or reject change appropriately through the EBA process.
Your Association will keep you informed of any developments or future proceedings on this very important matter.
This newsletter was written and authorised by Darryl Watkins (Divisional Secretary) and John Playford (Manager Industrial Relations)
Hmmmmm always a worry when the agenda is taken out of your control.....