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ABCC to examine desalination plant claims


VIC , Statement 

Release date: 18 November 2010 

ABC Commissioner Leigh Johns has expressed concerns about claims of covert monitoring at the Wonthaggi Desalination plant, and confirmed that the ABCC is examining the matter.

‘The ABCC has commenced enquiries to see if there has been a breach of workplace rights at the Wonthaggi Desalination plant under the general protections of the Fair Work Act 2009’, said Commissioner Johns.

Commissioner Johns has urged those involved not to engage in unlawful industrial action, and to follow the dispute resolution procedures outlined in the Thiess Degrémont and AMWU, AWU, CEPU & CFMEU Victorian Desalination Project Greenfields Agreement 2009.

‘It is understandable that employees, contractors and their representatives would be upset by the claims that have appeared in today’s media, but I urge them not to engage in unlawful industrial action, said Commissioner Johns.

‘When making the agreement for this site all parties agreed to comprehensive dispute resolution procedures. I urge all those concerned to use those mechanisms to address grievances that might arise related to the claims made in the media.’

Section 15 of the agreement outlines general guidance and a five-step procedure to be followed in the event of a grievance other than an imminent risk to OHS.

When a grievance arises the matter shall initially be handled at the workplace, and if that fails then an attempt to resolve the matter will be made in discussions with the employee, relevant union delegate, and Thiess Degrémont’s Superintendent, HR Manager or nominated representative.

Should those processes fail the matter may be escalated further, until either party may refer the matter to Fair Work Australia.

‘I would like to assure those concerned that if the ABCC will thoroughly investigate any matters arising from these claims and will take the appropriate action,’ concluded Commissioner Johns.

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