Education Department agrees to consult over axing of Pathway Planners

The Department of Education (DoE) has offered to consult with the AEU and CPSU over the impacts on employees of the Government’s decision to axe the Guaranteeing Futures Program, following a hearing in the Industrial Commission today.

The DoE concession came despite the Government using the resources of the Department of Public Prosecutions to try and derail the case and prevent the issue of “lack of consultation” being addressed at the hearing.

“We’re pleased the Department has offered to consult with unions who represent affected employees,” said Terry Polglase, AEU Tasmanian Branch President.

“The DoE concession came despite the Government’s use of the Department of Public Prosecutions to try and derail the process.”

“We remain appalled that Will Hodgman’s Government, through the Department, tried to ride roughshod over a legal requirement in the first place.”

“This is an example of why the powers of the Industrial Commission are so important and why no Government should be allowed total control over workers’ rights.”

“Hodgman’s insidious ‘wages cut legislation’ is designed with the express purpose of giving the Government power to bypass the Commission. Wins like today, on behalf of Pathway Planners, would otherwise not be possible.”

The DoE also said today that the transitional arrangements for affected employees will be put on hold while it consults with unions.

The first consultation is set for Tuesday of next week.
Terry Polglase, AEU Tasmanian Branch President