March 2006 K R CASTLEMAINE ENTERPRISE BARGAINING NEGOTIATIONS On Monday 27th March Meat Workers' Union Secretary Graham Bird, Area Organiser Jim Brittain and K.R. Castlemaine Union Delegates Graham Tonkin, Kevin Earl and Martin Neal met with Company representatives Mez Woodward, Rod Schubert and Keith Bassett to continue discussions about an Enterprise Bargaining Agreement to cover wages and conditions of workers at KR Castlemaine. There was discussion about a number of issues but at this point nothing has been formulated.  A further meeting will be held on 27th April at which the Company will supply us with a model for classification structures and pay rates as a point to start meaningful discussions.  There are a large number of issues to be addressed and this will take time. All employees will be kept informed on the progress of discussions, and your views on what you require will be paramount.  Those views will be sought through meetings once the Union and the Company work out the basis for ongoing negotiations. It is important that everyone is involved and that the negotiations are carried out in a proper and honest manner. The Union is committed to reaching an agreement that gives workers proper wages and conditions and job security and allows the Company to operate in a more efficient and productive manner. NEW INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS LEGISLATION The Howard Government's Workchoices Legislation became law on 27th March. This is the greatest attack on workers' wages and conditions since Federation.  The A.C.T.U. and all affiliated Unions will not stand by and see workers' conditions destroyed. The legislation and regulations runs to 1400 pages.  The Union will issue a newsletter summarizing the new legislation and its effects on meat industry workers when we have gone through all the legislation. It is more important than ever that you have the protection of being a Union member.  Contact your delegates Graham Tonkin, Kevin Earl or Martin Neal on the job, or Area Organiser Jim Brittain on 0417 590889 and become a member.