The Open Polytechnic Branch is about to enter bargaining for a new Collective Agreement. Preparatory members meetings to discuss bargaining have been well attended.

A number of personal grievances have risen throughout the year (approximately 8). Some have been able to be resolved through negotiations with management, with others currently being dealt with by our Organiser.

The 34/36 hour argument was litigated in July. To date there has been no further communication from the ERA as to when a decision can be expected.

The CEO, Paul Grimwood, retired this year and was replaced with Caroline Seelig. At the same time the HR Director Bill, Shields, resigned to work for VSA. Both had shown support for ASTE/TEU. It is noted that the HR situation at the Open Polytechnic does make it very difficult to negotiate with Management, as there are two separate HR systems in place, with management able to choose which system that they wish to operate, with the existence of both Human Resources and the Legal and Employee Relations Directorate. It makes it very difficult for the TEU to operate, as managers can undo any negotiations between the union and HR by redirecting the matter to the LERD.