NSW Govt attack on public sector
THE O'Farrell Government's plan to enforce tough new work conditions on public sector workers is another attack on local workers, according to Clarence Valley Community Unions spokesperson Tony King.
Mr King said it was an attack on the hard-won rights of workers already on wages that did not keep up with inflation rates.
"These new regulations will also cause inflexible working conditions forcing people to work hours that don't suit their families, without any compensation for it," he said.
"This was not something the people voted for when they elected this Government."
Along with shedding 10,000 jobs over the next four years, the State Government has revealed plans for what Treasurer Mike Baird has described as "tough but necessary" changes to leave entitlements.
Under the changes, leave-loading, penalty payments for shift workers, allowances for workers living in remote areas and carers leave will be significantly reduced.
Foster and surrogate parents also could be stripped of parental leave entitlements.
Just as it was with the 2.5% wage cap, police officers, nurses and teachers will be immune from the changes.
Public Sector Union general secretary John Cahill condemned the proposal and said changes to leave entitlements would only add to job insecurity.
He also expressed concern about the possible flow-on effect the removal of wage incentives in remote areas could have on regional NSW.
Industrial action at stop-work sites across the state will take place on October 8.
