IN THE TASMANIAN INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION

Industrial Relations Act 1984

The application in this matter by the Federated Miscellaneous Workers Union of Australia, Tasmanian Branch (the Union) is to increase the wage rates contained in the Boarding Schools and Student Hostels Award by 4% as a consequence of the application of the Restructuring and Efficiency wage fixing principles.

Mr O'Brien for the Union outlined the negotiations that took place between the parties. A summary of negotiations was submitted and marked as Exhibit OB1, incorporating proposed award variations and an agenda for further discussions on an establishment by establishment basis.

On what has been put before the Commission thus far I am satisfied that at least a 2% increase in wage rates can be sustained.

The parties have indicated that in respect of the remaining quantum of increase, the outcome of establishment level discussions will be conveyed to the Commission at the hearing set down for 7 October 1988.

I note the comments of the parties in respect of the package of offsets currently before the Commission. Their assessment is that the offsets exceed 2% and are more likely in the area of 2.5% to 3%.

Accordingly the envisaged in house discussions should produce some additional offsets.

At this stage I am prepared to endorse the request of the parties to award a 2% increase in wage rates operative from the beginning of the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 September 1988.

Whilst my decision is an interim one only, the Award will be varied to incorporate offsets put forward thus far.

A consolidation of the Award will follow after the October hearing.

My Order [Correction Order] is attached.

R.K. Gozzi
COMMISSIONER