The proposals included an improved to the rostering clause, a
decrease in paid maternity leave, a postponed commencement date for the pay
rises. While there were improvements to the rostering clause, it was
evident during our series of meetings that there were still many of concerns
about the proposed Agreement.
As a result of the concerns raised by members, ANF conducted an email
poll of those members for whom we had email contact details, asking them to
indicate whether they would be in favour of the proposed amended Agreement from
Red Cross or whether they would vote against it. 65% of the respondents said
they would vote NO to the proposed Agreement. Those who said they
would vote no, were given an opportunity to comment on their particular
concerns and reasons as to why they would vote no. This proved very
informative and as a result ANF has relayed its concerns about the dismal
prospects of any Agreement in its current form getting a majority of approval
from staff.
Blood Service Management has indicated to ANF that the Agreement will
not be put out to a vote given the lack of support by ANF and its
members. Given the length process of negotiations and the lack of
resolution of ANF's concerns during the negotiation process and given the
previous vote against a proposed Agreement, ANF has now notified the Fair Work
Australia of a bargaining dispute and seeking assistance in dealing with the
outstanding issues.
ANF expects to have the matter listed in the next few weeks and will
keep members updated as to developments arising the Fair Work Australia
conciliation process.
