AIRC SAYS UNIVERSITY OF BALLARAT STAFF SHOULD BE TOLD BALLOT RESULT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
MEDIA RELEASE
21 October 2005
The Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC) has recommended that the University of Ballarat release the result of the staff ballot on management’s proposed agreement as soon as possible after the ballot closes at 4pm today (Friday 21 Oct).
NTEU Victorian Division Secretary Matthew McGowan said “we hope the Vice Chancellor decides to treat staff with the respect they deserve, and comply with the Commission’s recommendation.”
At the AIRC hearing today, university management representatives refused to confirm whether or not the University would accept the Commission’s recommendation.
The AIRC recommendation is in response to serious concerns raised by the NTEU about the conduct of the ballot. University management had earlier informed staff that it may take up to a week to formally declare the ballot results.
“We see absolutely no reason for any delay. The ballot was conducted electronically by a private company, SecureVote. They have advised us that the preliminary result would be known very shortly after the 4pm closing time,” Mr McGowan said.
“Time is critical. If, as we expect, staff reject management’s proposed agreement, every day is important if we are to negotiate a new agreement and meet the government’s 30 November deadline to protect the University’s funding.”
“Either the University doesn’t want an agreement and consequently, the funding, or there must be real concerns about the integrity of the process.”
The AIRC’s recommendation is attached for information.
For further information and comment:
Mr Matthew McGowan, NTEU Victorian Division Secretary: 0417 054 110
Dr Jeremy Smith, NTEU University of Ballarat Branch President: 0429 334 938