[Greens-Media] Greens support NT teachers' industrial action

[Norton, Tim (Sen R. Siewert)]

Greens support NT teachers' industrial action
Tuesday 29th April 2008
 
Australian Greens Senator Rachel Siewert made a strong statement of
support in Alice Springs today for industrial action being taken by
teachers in the Northern Territory.
 
"The legitimate efforts of teachers in the NT to negotiate for fairer
work conditions are currently being hampered by an uncooperative NT
Labor Government," said Senator Siewert.
 
Teachers in the NT recently took industrial action after the
Commissioner for Public Employment again failed to deliver an offer that
would guarantee teachers equitable pay and conditions.
 
Lisa Hall, a teacher working in Central Australia said, "What most
people don't understand is that it's not just about a pay rise for us
already working here. It's about ensuring that the pay and, more
importantly, the conditions are good enough to entice new teachers to
the NT in the future."
 
Senator Siewert expressed concern about the Commissioner for Public
Employment hiding behind outdated Federal workplace legislation, saying
-
 
"It seems the CPE will only allow a very narrow focus for the dialogue
around remuneration, and won't allow them to negotiate on the most
important aspect of their job - workplace conditions."
 
"Relying on the provisions of Howard's Work Choices regime to obstruct
better conditions in NT schools is not in the spirit of the promised
'education revolution' " concluded Senator Siewert.
 
For more information or comment call Chris Twomey on 0407 725 025
Email senator.siewert at aph.gov.au  |  http://www.rachelsiewert.org.au