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Autumn 2002

HACSU stops contracting out, again

HACSU members have again been able to defeat a contracting out proposal that threatened job security and entitlements, this time at Tyler Village, a Salvation Army Nursing Home in Launceston. This follows the successful resolution of a number of similar disputes in other parts of Tasmania. The Tyler Village dispute started when management decided they would contract out catering services.

Significantly, a contract with the outside catering company was made up and signed without any consultation with staff, a matter which management now seems to be regretting. When catering staff found out that they were to be contracted out, they insisted that there be no reduction of entitlements, wages or job security. Several meetings took place over this matter, with negotiations finally breaking down. In a great show of unity, all staff at Tyler Village supported the kitchen staff and put bans in place. Staff refused to collect linen, worked "to rule", looking after clients but producing no documentation. Within a couple of hours of having to pick up the linen themselves, management caved in and gave a commitment to abandon the contracting out proposal. Members' jobs and entitlements were safe!

HACSU State Secretary, Chris Brown, said "...staff had been terrific in the way they supported each other". "I think every one realised if management were able to get away with contracting out catering services, other services would be next." "Management saw there was overwhelming staff resolve and to their credit acted quickly to sort the situation rather than have a long and demoralising dispute." "I congratulate all members involved. I think this again shows the value of collective action."

Merris French, a HACSU member who has worked at Tyler Village for 16 years, said the main lesson to be learnt was the need for consultation. "This should have been fixed before it got started down this path," Merris said. "We have now got a new management who seem reasonable. They seem willing to look into issues and consult before OKing anything." "Hopefully with the new Worksite Committee we will be advised of things in advance and can have input. We are all hoping there will be better overall communication between management and the workforce." Merris also said she was really impressed with the backup of the union's officials, and the other staff at Tyler Village.

"What really impressed me was how the staff all supported the catering staff. I don't think the other staff realise how grateful we were for their support. It was brilliant." "We wouldn't have been so successful without union membership and people getting together like they did."