C2262/200, Transcript of Proceedings [2001] AIRCTrans 860 (14 May 2001)

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TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS

AUSTRALIAN INDUSTRIAL

RELATIONS COMMISSION

COMMISSIONER HARRISON

C No 22622 of 2000
C No 23768 of 2000

CONSTRUCTION, FORESTRY, MINING AND ENERGY UNION

and

ABB ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION PTY LIMITED
AND OTHERS

CONSTRUCTION, FORESTRY, MINING AND ENERGY UNION

and

ABIGROUP ASSET SERVICES PTY LIMITED

Notifications pursuant to section 99
of the Act of a dispute re wages and
conditions of employment

EXTRACT OF TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS

SYDNEY

THURSDAY, 26 APRIL 2001

EXTRACT OF TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS [2.50pm]

PN1

THE COMMISSIONER: It seems to me that there is an arguable case for a more rational approach to award regulation in this industry, given my relatively limited experience, in regard to the Eastern Pipeline project, and a lot of what Mr Bodkin has submitted today, does have some merit. However, I do note Mr Harridge's submission that the industry may have a different view. Notwithstanding that, because I think there is the basis for dialogue and discussion between the parties, I would request that Mr Harridge and Mr Vale, confer with their respective clients, and members, with a view of responding to the CFMEU, within one month.

PN2

In respect to the AWU, it also seems to me ideal that there ought to be a more unified approach between the three unions who have been mentioned today to award regulation and to that end, there ought to also be discussions between the three unions, with the view of reaching some common position. That's a hope which I think could be realised with an open mind and that it's something which is worthwhile striving for. Particularly given the time frame that we do have between now and when these major projects are due to begin in the future, it's a time I think to reflect on the lessons of the past and to derive some new approach arising from those experiences of the past.

PN3

So I just hope that in an ideal sense that perhaps the submission of the CFMEU, which is reflected in the CFMEU3, might be the catalyst for a new dawn. It ought to be taken on board without prejudice, and discussed openly between both the employers and the unions, in the hope of reaching some agreed position. If there is no agreed position, no doubt the CFMEU will consider its rights in terms of progressing its application. But certainly a consent approach is the ideal outcome.

END OF EXTRACT [2.58pm]