Statement by the National Implementation Body in relation to the Department of Social and Family Affairs and the CPSU (extended flexi bands)
Having regard to its statement of 23rd May, 2008, the National Implementation Body (NIB) met to consider recent developments in relation to the current dispute between the CPSU and the Department of Social and Family Affairs over the extension of flexi bands (General Council Report 1379) and changes to opening hours in local offices.
In the course of its examination of the matters, the NIB noted that the Department of Social and Family Affairs had not invoked the formal mechanisms under Paragraph 27.10 of the Public Service Pay Agreement contained in Towards 2016 regarding a dispute about what constitutes a breach of the Agreement.
The NIB understands that a lack of clarity over the above issue may have prejudiced to outcome of the facilitation process recommended in its statement of 23rd May.
The NIB recommends, in light of the clarification provided above, that:
the parties would agree to re-engage on the issues with the facilitated process;
these discussions should be completed by 1 July 2008; and
there would be a de-escalation of the industrial action which commenced on 16th June.
Given the importance of minimising the inconvenience caused to the clients of the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the NIB will request early re-engagement by the Labour Relations Commission in the facilitation process.
19th June, 2008
ENDS