Partnership Conference 2003

On 18 December the Union’s Committee, along with representatives of the Chiefs and Deputy Chiefs Association, met with the Fire Service Senior Management Team with the
objective of developing a Partnership Protocol.

The Protocol essentially deals with the way in which the parties should interact and conduct business.

The matters addressed are broad and high level. The Protocol does not address specific issues. However, the Senior Management Team can have no doubt as to what the Union expects to come out of the Protocol.

As well, underpinning the Protocol there is agreement for regular Union/Management meetings at District, Region and National level.

The final wording of the Partnership Protocol is presently being finalized and should be available early in the New Year.

Taking of Leave/days in Lieu

The law is clear as far as when taking Leave or use of Days in Lieu is concerned -

a) Annual Leave/Service Holiday
The employer has the right to determine when this leave is taken – e.g. they can refuse to grant such leave on a Statutory Holiday.

b) Days in Lieu
The worker has the right to determine when a Day in Lieu is used e.g. a Day in Lieu can be taken on a Statutory Holiday if the worker so wishes.