SYDNEY UNI AGREEMENT BACK ON THE TABLE
November 12 2003
After meeting with the Vice-Chancellor today, NTEU believes it has achieved a breakthrough in the marathon negotiations for a new enterprise agreement at the University of Sydney.
The discussions today occurred in the light of indications from the University that Higher Education Minister Brendan Nelson would release modifications to his proposed industrial relations reforms later this week. This prospect has enabled constructive discussion to continue on an agreement at the University of Sydney, which had been scuttled when the government’s industrial relations package was released in early October.
University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gavin Brown, welcomed the commitment of the local union branches to continue constructive discussions on the development of an enterprise agreement, and commented:
‘Despite many months of arduous negotiations, all parties are showing remarkable patience.’
NTEU Branch President, Michael Thomson, commented:
‘The University of Sydney agreement is important for the staff, the University and the broader community. It includes landmark provisions for 36 weeks paid parental leave, restrictions on casual employment and a host of key improvements to employment conditions,’
‘The process of negotiation has been long and difficult and we are happy to anticipate it drawing to a close very soon. We hope to sign the agreement early next week and continue our cooperative and productive relationship with the University.’
However, Mr Thomson added that whilst he expected to be signing an agreement early next week, NTEU members at a 250-strong meeting today voted to meet again next Wednesday to consider industrial action if an agreement still had not been struck.
For further comment:
Michael Thomson
President, NTEU University of Sydney Branch