The problem of late starts in Table Games has led to the Company to start discussions over making available alternative shift patterns for Table Games Staff. SEA-Unite reps have wanted to minimise the use of late starts which are a break from people’s normal pattern and causes disruption to their plans.
The Company has come back with a suggestion that the option is available to work a permanent 10-hour 4-day shift or even variable shifts over 5 days. This would allow staff to be permanently rostered to cover the shortages that lead to late starts and provide for some flexibility to both the employer and worker.
Workers on 4 day shifts would get 3 consecutive days off where possible or 2 consecutive plus one other. At this stage it is not seen as replacing the 8-hour shift arrangement for the big majority of staff.
Most workers spoken to seem happy to have alternative arrangements available. There are some details that need to gone through with the company (i.e. breaks on the longer shift pattern) and guarantees that the greater “flexibility” can’t be used to casualise employment patterns. A survey is being prepared by SEA-Unite to get workers preferences.
The Company has agreed to look at the rates being paid to the Riggers. We have done a survey on the industry and estimate their current rate is well below the average. We’ll be making submissions along those lines at our next meeting. The company has also agreed to take steps to ensure they are getting the internal and external training they need.
We have had a couple of cases where “verbal agreements” with Managers have needed to be recognised and honoured after the Managers moved on. While verbal agreements are legally enforceable they can be hard to prove. It is very important that any “understandings” you have with Managers are confirmed in writing.
On several occasions recently we have been called into situations where members have attended disciplinaries or discussions over performance without a delegate present. This has led to situations becoming worse than they need be before we can resolve them. It is very important that you ask for a delegate or union representative to be present for all meetings with the Company that could affect you adversely
After SEA-Unite’s involvement the Company has agreed to begin training for Security staff as Ambassadors at the end of this month. This will allow them to achieve pay parity and will lift the wages of many. The Medics are scheduled to go first. A notice will be displayed on your notice board in the muster. Security staff are now having their proper breaks after action by SEA-Unite.
Monthly 1-hour meetings are being held with Management. First up was looking for solutions to resolve the issue the late start issue.
Ongoing fortnightly meetings are being held to deal with day-to-day issues such as tipping and working outside rostered hours. One issue that we did raise is the large number of staff who seem to be categorised as part time but working fulltime hours and the small number categorised as permanent full-time. A new procedure for lost property is being implemented.
Day shift & Swing shift SEA-Unite members met to discuss issues surrounding the pay rate equivalent when working in Play. A survey was done on preferences and will be discussed with the Company.
SEA-Unite has supported a Rebo worker in getting his money back after he was made to pay the meal cost for a customer who did a “runner”. The Company agreed this was an unacceptable practice. If this has happened to you contact us.
A 24/7 part time worker working full time hours for the past year who had not signed a contract has secured a full time position plus a contract as well as receiving his $100 for signing his IEA.
Several hundred members attended the AGM on April 14. There was discussion on our strategic plans for the future, election of the exec and adoption of our rules. A special workshop was held on knowing your rights at work, which got great feedback.
As a result of these discussions we are planning to produce a booklet for members to refer to. A recruitment plan was adopted to make SEA-Unite the strongest union possible on site. The executive team and other delegates will be available on our next 24-hour recruitment day May 10-11.
Co Presidents: Liane Henry and Bernie Harris
Secretary: Lola Topia
Trustees: Chris Tatton-Brown and Mike Treen
Committee Members: Josie Mulligan (Gaming Machines); Candy Sherman (Table Games); Alex Cooke (Table Games); Siu Armstrong (Action); Casino Ngamutu (Property Services); Pita Phillips (Security); Freda Keefe (Finance); Tangata Tuitupou (Property Services); James Broomhead (Food and Beverage); Freda Nauer (Housekeeping); Susana Fue (Housekeeping); Nana Vaetoru (Carpark)
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