IEU and CCER ready for a vote in ACT congregational schools
The Union has engaged in negotiations with the Catholic Commission for Employment Relations (CCER) since mid 2014 for a new multi-enterprise agreement (MEA) to apply to teachers in the three ACT Catholic Congregational schools, Daramalan College, Marist College and St Edmund’s College, Canberra.
The last pay rise received by teachers was in July 2013. After consultation with members the Union agreed in late 2014 to modest pay increases:
•1% increase from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2014
•2.25% increase from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2015
•2.5% increase from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2016.
This was not the end of negotiations. Employers had previously sought to reduce sick leave accrual, and develop a system where sick leave is accrued throughout the year rather than at the commencement of each year of service. This proposed change was withdrawn by schools in February this year, following strong opposition by members.
The IEU held Chapter meetings at Daramalan College, Marist College and St Edmund’s College late last month where members overwhelmingly supported motions rejecting the unacceptable Catholic ethos clause and ongoing delays in pay rises.
Employers, not wanting to further delay the making of the agreement, have advised the IEU that the schools are prepared to maintain the status quo at this time. The IEU and CCER are ready to proceed to a vote on a new agreement.
Catholic systemic schools
Teachers and staff of Catholic systemic schools turned out in overwhelming numbers during protected industrial action last year and were fully supportive of the planned stop work on Tuesday 28 April. Thank you to our Union staff for all of your hard work and to members for your support during this campaign.
In my experience as a member and Rep I have quickly learned that knowledge is power for members. Stay tuned to the Union’s website, Facebook and Twitter feeds to keep up to date with current negotiations. For all Reps and members of school chapter committees make sure you register for the Reps Training Day to be held at The Brassey of Canberra on the 8 May. Casual relief is paid for by the Union.