TASMANIAN INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION

Industrial Relations Act 1984
s.23 application for award or variation of award

Tasmanian Confederation of Industries
(T.3188 of 1991)

MARINE BOARDS AWARD

 

Structural efficiency principle

REASONS FOR DECISION

This matter concerns an application to vary the Marine Boards Award in accordance with the structural efficiency principle.

Of particular note is the reduction of classifications from over 100 down to a more manageable 17 level structure with definitions.

Classification C8, Tradesperson Level 1, is the benchmark figure, representing 100% of the key classification. Other classifications are given designated percentages to fix proper relativities of skill and responsibility. Resultant wage rates now include various work-related allowances.

The resultant arrangements allow for maximum flexibility and efficiency of work arrangements.

Further negotiations are required before finalising arrangements in respect of administrative classifications and to this extent those positions are reserved matters.

Leave is also reserved in respect of certain transport classifications.

Certain other position understandings were placed on transcript, supported in some cases by exhibits detailing correspondence between parties.

However, having placed such commentary on record employee organisations did not oppose the award being varied and seemed reassured by the employer representative's comments to the effect that problems were not likely to occur in the implementation of the new arrangements.

Other notable features of the proposed amendments included:

1. Revised definition of "Show Day" holiday to allow one such day to be observed in a city, town or district chosen by agreement by the employer and employees.

2. Adjustment to Leading Hand Allowance and Tool Allowance.

3. Deletion of allowances in respect of:

    (a) "cold places"
    (b) "dirty work"
    (c) "height"

4. Provisions for "employment agreements" in respect of employees classified at Level C12 and above.

Since this is a consent matter which is consistent with the requirements of the structural efficiency principle and public interest I have decided to endorse it and the award will be varied accordingly.

Date of Effect:

This variation shall have effect from the agreed date of the first pay period to commence on or after 29 July 1991.

Order will follow.

A. Robinson
DEPUTY PRESIDENT

Appearances:
Mr T. Abey for the Tasmanian Confederation of Industries.
Mr J. Lynch for the Transport Workers' Union of Australia, Tasmanian Branch.
Mr B. Best with Mr L. Archer for The Federated Engine Drivers' and Firemen's Association of Australasia, Tasmanian Branch.
Mrs H. Dowd for the Federated Clerks Union of Australia, Tasmanian Branch.
Mr P. Baker for the Metals and Engineering Workers' Union.
Mr V. Jacobs for The Australian Workers' Union, Tasmania Branch.
Mr S. Groves for the Merchant Service Guild of Australia - Victorian and Tasmanian Branch.

Date and Place of Hearing:
1991:
Hobart
July 29