Page 4285 - Week 14 - Wednesday, 27 November 2013
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
MR CORBELL: There are a range of options available to staff, including staged instalments over extended periods of time. All such arrangements would be done in accordance with the relevant industrial agreements in place between the government and the officers concerned.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Smyth.
MR SMYTH: Minister, will you consider waiving or reducing the staff debts as a result of the government knowingly failing to keep accurate staff records?
MR CORBELL: It is worth putting some context around why this scenario arose, and then I will address directly the issue that Mr Smyth asked about. Before 2008 leave records were kept in paper form only and record keeping was, to be frank, antiquated. With the transfer to an electronic record, there were failings in the transfer of data from paper-based records to electronic-based records. This was exacerbated by the fact that responsibility for the maintenance of those records through Shared Services’ HR functions and communication with my directorate was less than adequate in drawing to my directorate’s attention failings in relation to record keeping. That said, this is a matter that the government must take responsibility for, and it does, and the government is taking all appropriate action.
I am sorry; I have forgotten the second part of your question, Mr Smyth, if you would like to ask it again.
Mr Smyth: Will you consider waiving or reducing?
MR CORBELL: Yes. In relation to the issue of waiver, that matter will be considered as appropriate and in accordance with the industrial arrangements in place between the government and the officers concerned.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Smyth.
MR SMYTH: Minister, what work are you doing with the Transport Workers Union to resolve this issue, and what are they are asking for?
MR CORBELL: This is not a matter that I have discussed with the Transport Workers Union recently and certainly not today, but I have to say relations with the Transport Workers Union remain excellent. The union has not indicated to me any dissatisfaction with my handling of the matter. I thank them for their ongoing cooperation. The Transport Workers Union do an excellent job representing their members, and the government values the relationship it has with the union.
Visitors
MADAM SPEAKER: Before I call any other members, could I acknowledge the presence in the gallery of another group of staff from Canberra Connect. Welcome to your Assembly.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video