NTEU COMMENTS ON MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ANDREW FRASER
August 2, 2005
MEDIA RELEASE ON MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ANDREW FRASER
The National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) wishes to outline its position in relation to the situation of Macquarie University academic, Associate Professor Andrew Fraser.
While it is not appropriate at this time for the NTEU to comment on the details of matters pertaining between Associate Professor Fraser and the management of the University, the NTEU does have a firm and consistent position on the issues that have been raised in the context of the public discussion on this matter.
The Union strongly believes that academics have the fundamental right to state their views publicly, even though these views may be unpopular or controversial. Universities have a responsibility to promote critical discussion and debate.
There may be many in the university community who absolutely disagree with Associate Professor Fraser’s statements, but who would nonetheless defend his right to articulate these views.
One of the guiding principles of the NTEU’s Code of Ethics, which has been in place for many years, is “equity and non discrimination” and that all staff should have the “responsibility to ensure that the workplace and learning environment of the University are free from harassment”.
If University management thinks that Associate Professor Fraser has breached university policy, there are appropriate legal actions available to them.
All staff are entitled to the fair application of these procedures, and the NTEU will be ensuring that Associate Professor Fraser’s rights under the institution’s enterprise agreement are fully protected.
The NTEU looks forward to the timely resolution of the matter so that staff at Macquarie University can continue delivering on their deserved reputation for excellence in research and teaching.
For further information or comment:
Dr Judy Goyen, President, NTEU Macquarie University Branch: (02) 9850 8672
NTEU STATEMENT ON MACQUAIRIE UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC PROFESSOR ANDREW FRASER
The NTEU in no way endorses the statements made by Associate Professor Fraser; it is providing industrial advice in the disciplinary action taken by the University.
Every member has the right to expect that they will be provided with advice by the Union, and in order to ensure fair process, be represented in discussions with the University when faced with disciplinary charges or action.
In this case the University has imposed a disciplinary penalty without following the procedures for taking disciplinary action, in direct contravention of the enterprise bargaining agreement.
It is quite often the case that academic staff express controversial opinions that do not accord with the views of their colleagues, their University, or with the social justice agenda of the Union.
However, the NTEU must be able to guarantee fair process for all its members without fear or favour.
Fraser's comments will be judged by his colleagues, the wider university community and in the court of public opinion.
The Union is an organisation strongly opposed to racism, and works hard in broader community debates to highlight instances of racism, both within the university sector and in our society.
Many union members would join with others in being affronted by the statements made by Fraser, but we know that unfortunately, there are also many in Australia who would agree with him.
This country has a bloody and sorrowful history of racism that continues through to today. The Union, and its leadership are committed to opposing such racism and will continue to do so.
Any further inquiries: Dr Carolyn Allport, NTEU President, (03) 9254 1910