Page 4039 - Week 13 - Wednesday, 30 October 2013
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of the trial period. They have been rectified by the supplier in accordance with the terms of the contract. Mr Smyth might live in some bizarre world where contracts are never fully executed properly by suppliers, but it happens. And the territory has contractual terms that ensure the supplier makes good, and that is what has occurred on this occasion.
Mr Smyth also notes that the paramedics union, the organisation that represents our front-line ambulance officers, and the Chief Officer of the ACT Ambulance Service have both said on the public record that at no time was there any risk to patient safety due to these complications. But Mr Smyth continues to make allegations about these machines, deliberately and wilfully causing worry and concern amongst the Canberra community in a way that he should be ashamed of. He should be absolutely ashamed.
In relation to disciplinary processes, any misconduct issues within any ACT government service are dealt with consistent with the procedures set out in the Public Sector Management Act, associated documents and the relevant enterprise agreement. Mr Smyth asks whether there have been any complaints to WorkSafe ACT. The Justice and Community Safety Directorate can advise that it has not been notified of any details of any complaints made.
In relation to complaints to the Fair Work Ombudsman, staff, of course, have a right to raise concerns, and do so from time to time, with the Fair Work Ombudsman. That is why the office exists. The government is aware of concerns raised about the leave audit of ACT AS staff records. The matter has been raised with the Fair Work Ombudsman, who has conducted a review of the matter. A final report is pending from the ombudsman. I do not think it is appropriate to speculate on the outcomes of that report until it has been delivered. In relation to complaints before the ACAT, I am advised by the ACT Ambulance Service that it is not aware of any current complaints before the ACAT.
In relation to the State Emergency Service and the replacement of the deputy chief officer, this role is a public service position. Members would be aware that the former deputy chief officer resigned from the SES with effect from 31 October 2013 to pursue other career opportunities. An acting deputy chief officer is likely to be appointed in early November.
In relation to truck licensing—can you believe of all the things we are debating in this place we are debating truck licensing?—the SES are currently working with a number of organisations that provide driver training and assessment activities to determine value for money for the truck licensing requirements for the ACT SES. It is expected a decision on this will be made in the coming weeks, at which point the training and assessment program will commence.
Mr Smyth has asked about the Deputy Chief Officer of the Rural Fire Service. Believe it or not, things happen and people resign from their jobs. In fact, this resignation occurred because the gentleman involved retired from the public service. The position is currently being filled in an acting capacity, as is normal when someone retires from a position.
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