CONFERENCE OF THE

TERTIARY EDUCATION UNION (TEU)

TE HAUTÃ…ª KAHURANGI O AOTEAROA

Minutes of the Conference held in the Victoria Room, at the Mercure Hotel

Willis Street, Wellington

Monday 9 and Tuesday 10 November 2009

PRESENT:

Whaea Kā Daniels, Te Kāhui Kaumātua
Whaea Mere Broughton, Te Kāhui Kaumātua
Dr Tom Ryan, President
Tangi Tipene, Immediate Past President
Aoraki Polytechnic		AUT
Michael Armstrong, Delegate		Camille Nakhid. Delegate
		David Nicholls, Delegate
Aotearoa Wānanga		John Prince, Delegate
Fred Potini, Delegate		Sue Bretherton, Delegate
Te Aroha Lemke, Te Toi Ahurangi		David Sinfield, Observer
		Julie Douglas, Delegate
Auckland University		Andy Ballard, Observer
Joce Jesson, Council		Caroline McKinney, Te Uepū- Delegate
Helen Charters, Delegate
Judy Duncan, Delegate		Awanuiārangi
Lionel Watkins, Delegate		Tamara Hapi, Te Uepū- Delegate
Richard Phillips, Delegate
Shiree Lee, Delegate		BoPP
Margaret Taurere, Te Toi Ahurangi		Nick Wallingford, Delegate
Tauwehe Tamati, Te UepūDelegate
Leighton Robb, Te Uepū- Delegate		Canterbury University
Alex Sims, Delegate		Helen Kissell, Council
Cerian Wagstaff, Delegate		Cornelia Sears, Delegate
Kim Dirks, Delegate		Jack Heinemann, Delegate
Paul Taillon, Delegate		Jo Togiaso, Delegate
Sean Sturn, Delegate		Tim O’Sullivan, Delegate
Marcia Murray, Te Toi Ahurangi		Jo Diamond, Te Uepū- Delegate
Roland Brownlee, Te Uepū- Delegate		Brad Meek, Delegate
Koro Tawa, Te Uepū- Delegate		Grant Bush, Delegate
Terehia Brock, Te Uepū- Delegate		Jennifer Middendorf, Delegate
		Megan Clayton, Delegate
		Warwick Anderson, Delegate
		Diane Gordon-Burns, Te Uepū- Delegate
CPIT		NorthTec
Mahony May, Delegate		Eric J Stone, Council
Charmaine Tukuapouwhare, Te Uepū- Delegate		Bill Rogers, Te Uepū- Delegate
Richard Draper, Delegate
		Otago Polytechnic
EIT		Annemarie Jutel, Delegate
Gordon Reid, Delegate		Craig West, Delegate
Donna Foxall, Te Uepū- Observer		Fiona Mains, Delegate
Malcolm McKay, Delegate		Ken Laraman, Council
		Phil Edwards, Delegate
Lincoln University
Lyn Boddington, Council		Otago University
Lyndsay Ainsworth, Delegate		Teresa La Rooy, Council
Teresa Cunningham, Te Toi Ahurangi		Brent Lovelock, Delegate
Scott Walters, Delegate		Cate Bardwell, Delegate
George Hill, Delegate		Charlie Chambers, Delegate
		Chris Linsell, Delegate
Massey University		Eric Shelton, Delegate
Barry Foster, Council		Joneen Walker, Delegate
Caitlin Pause, Delegate		Elizabeth Hughes, Delegate
Chris Good, Delegate		Melanie Lewis, Delegate
Christine Alexander, Delegate		Melissa Lethaby, Delegate
Ying Yue Zhao, Delegate		Elizabeth Hughes, Delegate
Sheeanda Field, Te Uepū- Delegate		Shane Montague-Gallagher, Delegate
Grant Duncan, Delegate		Vijayandran Devadas, Delegate
Harvey Jones, Delegate
Neil Ward, Delegate		REAP
Shirley Barnett, Delegate		Carol Lawrence, Delegate
Noelene White, Council		Venessa Kupenga, Te Uepū- Delegate
MIT		SIT
Fay Cobden-Grainge, Delegate		Rose Cardoso, Delegate
John Connor, Delegate		Paula Tangney, Delegate
Lesley Francey, Delegate
Matt Shepit, Observer		Tai Poutini Polytechnic
Verna Tuteao, Te Uepū- Observer		Donna Dean, Delegate
Tairāwhiti Polytechnic		Waikato University
Phyl Stewart, Delegate		Andrea Haines, Delegate
Charlotte Burkhardt, Te Uepū- Observer		Grant Harris, Delegate
		Annie Barker, Delegate
Te Tari Puna Ora o Aotearoa		Dov Bing, Delegate
Lorraine Cooper, Delegate		Pania Melbourne, Te Toi Ahurangi
Hana Sei, Observer		Sayeed Bano, Delegate
Rotu Mihaka, Te Uepū- Delegate		Cheri (Panda) Waititi, Council
TOPNZ		Whitireia
Tom McGrath, Delegate		Kay Laracy, Delegate
Peter McLuskie, Delegate		Hēmi Pōtae, Te Uepū- Delegate
Ngaroma Williams, Te Toi Ahurangi
		TEU Staff
UCOL		Sharn Riggs, National Secretary
Mac MacMillan, Delegate		Jo Scott, Policy Analyst
Tina Smith, Delegate		Lee Cooper, Te Pou Tuarā
Vicki-Lee Tyacke, Delegate		Suzanne McNabb, Women’s Officer
Fiona Mason, Observer		Nanette Cormack, Deputy Secretary
Junette Ward, Te Uepū- Observer		Irena Brorens, National Industrial Officer
		Muriel Fisher, Finance Officer
UNITEC		Stephen Day, Communications Officer
Jan Patterson, Delegate		Marian Cadman, Asst Sec (Admin)
Greg Rublee, Te Uepū- Observer		Sue Wang, Administration Officer
Mary Crotty, Observer		Angeline Tuscher, Reception
Liz Nicholson, Delegate		Jane Adams, Organiser
Sarah Hardman, Delegate		Kris Smith, Organiser
Suha Aksoy, Delegate		Chan Dixon, Organiser
		Phil Dodds, Organiser
		Gaby Moore, Organiser
		Megan Morris, Organiser
Victoria University		Lawrence O’Halloran, Organiser
Sandra Grey, Council		Shaun Scott, Organiser
Tania Loughlin, Council		Cindy Doull, Organiser
Lisa Terrini, Delegate		Phil Dyhrberg, Organiser
		Michael Gilchrist, Organiser
Waiāriki		Paul Haley, Organiser
Onny Holdaway, Delegate		Jane Kostanich, Organiser
		Russell Taylor, Organiser
WINTEC
Susan Bennett, Delegate
Martin Lockwood, Delegate
Jacqui James, Delegate

Guest Speakers In Attendance:
Grahame McCulloch		General Secretary, NTEU (Aus)
Pat Forward		Federal TAFE Secretary, AEU (Aus)
Tevita Koroi		President COPE, Fijian Teachers’ Union
Sophia Blair		Co President NZUSA
Jordan King		Co President NZUSA
In Attendance:
Jo Dawkins, Minute Taker

MONDAY 9 NOVEMBER 2009

Karakia and Whakatau

The Conference commenced at 9.30a.m with karakia and waiata.

Sharn Riggs outlined the programme for the day and housekeeping matters for the conference.”  Participants were invited to welcome new attendees.

1) TEU NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS

Cheri Waititi was asked by Tom Ryan to clarify the change in protocol for commencement of the conference from that stated in the agenda.

Cheri Waititi took the Chair during the President’s Address.

Copies of the President’s address were tabled.”  Tom Ryan welcomed all delegates and visitors to the first full TEU Conference, a major achievement for the organisation.”  He noted that Kaumātua Dr Te Huirangi Waikerepuru was unable to attend this meeting and his presence was missed.

Tom Ryan paid tribute to the former presidents of ASTE and AUS, Tangi Tipene and Maureen Montgomery for their work at the time of the merger.”  He also thanked Sharn Riggs, Nanette Cormack and the staff who had worked tirelessly and professionally throughout the merger.

Since July he had been involved fully in the role focusing on advocacy, submissions, involvement with the NZCTU and sub-committees, visiting half the branches and administration.”  Tom Ryan said parts of the governance structure were now working well, and he felt well supported by the six vice presidents.”  It was noted that Michael O’Connell had resigned due to a change in employment and his contribution to date was noted with appreciation.

The regrettable split of ITPNZ during the year into two parts had created difficulty with advocacy.”  Meetings with other external organisations included VCs, CEs of institutes and supporting international links.”  TEU was also part of Education International, and it had been decided at the Bangkok conference recently to bring tertiary education unions in the pacific region together on a regular basis.

Political issues being dealt with and priority issues for 2010 as detailed in the President’s report were presented.”  The Prime Minister had announced an intention over the next 15 years to bring New Zealand salaries to a comparable level with Australian salaries, and TEU must continue to remind him and his Ministers of this goal.

Questions and comments were invited on the President’s speech.

• Union leadership was requested to put sufficient resourcing into budget information to enable constituents to negotiate with vice chancellors.

This would be focused on to ensure institutions were held accountable for their claims about their budgets.

• No mention noted in external meetings of meetings with Māori, including the Associate Minister for Education.

This was a significant point and would be a priority in 2010.”  Efforts had been made to establish contact with the Māori Party.

• Timelines for actions for 2010.

Hoped to achieve these within one year’s time and be in a position to report to the next Conference that all are happening in some extent.

• Does the President get involved in any collective bargaining or collective grievances?

Historically and for legal reasons the President does not get involved. This is work for the professional staff of the union.

• Significance of pay increases to CEOs of various institutions given the State Services Commission advice on pay issues.

TEU had strongly voiced their concern with the SSC regarding what the union considers the SSC’s improper involvement in issuing what were seen as virtual instructions in this regard.

• Is pay equity including closing the gender gap a priority in 2010?

Pay equity and the issues of addressing the gender pay gap were very real issues for the members of the union – and whilst not listed as a specific priority were definitely ongoing priorities.

BARGAINING UPDATE

Irena Brorens and the ITP MECA bargaining team were invited to provide an update on the current bargaining round and strike action.”  Up to seven days industrial action involving full strikes, lightening strikes and Wear Red days had been undertaken to date.”  This was a struggle that affected members had taken on, on behalf of all TEU members to protect core conditions from erosion by employers; specifically to increase teaching days per year, and erode discretionary leave.”  Legal challenges had been received from some of the institutions on action taken.

Irena Brorens sought a press statement from the Conference to the effect that the SSC had not criticised the pay increases the employers have received while staff are out on strike.”  This was supported by acclamation.” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Action: President

Representatives spoke on the ramifications of strike action on members, including loss of pay and the difficulty of walking away from students during assessment times.”  Members were thanked for their emails of support, and were encouraged to support picket lines in person, disseminate information through branches, and email CEOs of affected institutions which would highlight the involvement and solidarity of the whole Union on protection of conditions.

Cheri Waititi referred to Section 4 page 48 of the papers, which outlined industrial goals and priorities for 2009/2010.”  Tom Ryan took the Chair.

Tom Ryan thanked the representatives from the ITP MECA team and endorsed the support of the membership to those members who are on strike.”  He encouraged all members to support their colleagues.

2) APOLOGIES

Apologies were sustained from:

Dr Te Huirangi Waikerepuru” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Kaumātua

Glennis Birks” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  WinTec

Susan Wātene” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Unitec

Adele Stone” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  NorthTec

Dr Maureen Montgomery” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Immediate Past President, AUS

Janet Bedggood “ ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  AUT

Nick Chandler “ ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Otago University

Fiona Te Momo “ ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Massey University (Albany)

Pearl Barron “ ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Otago University

Colleen McMurchy-Pilkington” ” ” ”  Auckland University

Geoff Austin “ ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Auckland University

Sharon Phillips “ ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Whitireia Community Polytechnic

Branch representatives, members of council, Te Toi Ahurangi and staff identified themselves.

3) MINUTES OF INAUGURAL TEU ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2008

a) Confirmation of the Minutes

Amendments:

Sue Bretherton requested that her name be recorded as present.

It was resolved:

That the minutes of the Inaugural TEU Conference held on 24 and 25 November 2008 be confirmed as a true and accurate record incorporating the above amendment.

Moved: From the Chair

Seconded: Joce Jesson

CARRIED

b) Matters Arising

The President was asked what measures were being taken to ensure that the CTU has recruitment of new members or unionisation of staff as a high priority. “ Tom Ryan confirmed this was a high priority at the CTU, National Affiliates Council and sub-committees.”  Sharn Riggs said at the recent CTU Biennial Conference one of the highest priorities identified was to ensure a process of recruitment where people would then be directed to the appropriate union.

Visit by the Minister for Tertiary Education

Tom Ryan advised that the Minister for Tertiary Education had been invited to address the meeting.”  Regular meetings had been held with the Ministers of Education and Science during the year.”  He was aware of differing views regarding the invitation to the Minister to address the Conference, and advised that this was a Council decision.”  The Prime Minister had attended the CTU conference two weeks ago, which indicated a general acceptance within the union movement that relevant ministers in the sector should be invited to conferences.

Tom Ryan outlined the format for the Minister’s visit which would include a prepared statement to be issued at the conclusion of the Minister’s speech by Cheri Waititi on behalf of Council and the sector.”  Questions from the floor would not be taken.”  Council had agreed on this course of action, and hoped it would result in good media coverage.”  Members of the media were welcomed to the Conference.

There were a number of questions and comments on this direction determined by Council as follows:

• Disappointment and concern was expressed by a number of delegates that there would not be an opportunity to pose questions to the Minister, as it was felt she should be held accountable to answer on behalf of government for its action (or lack of) in the sector.
• Disappointment was strongly expressed that members had not been canvassed on this course of action prior to the Council’s decision, and Council were asked to ensure consultation took place with members in the future before taking such steps.

Action: President

• Members were encouraged to write individual letters to the Minister.
• Some members felt the Minister should not have been invited to address the Conference.”  There was a view that non invitation would have sent a stronger message.
• It was suggested that it would have presented a stronger impact for specific questions to have been addressed to the Minister from the floor by Branches rather than individuals.

Cheri Waititi was requested to include key messages in her reply to the Minister:

1)” ” ” ” ”  reduced funding to community education,

2)” ” ” ” ”  narrowing of national standards,

3)” ” ” ” ”  no recognition of the importance of tertiary education in the regions.

Helen Kissell expressed surprise at the advice that Council had made this decision.”  She had conferred with other Council members who also did not recall this decision, and requested a reference to the decision in Council minutes.”  Tom Ryan apologised for the level of discomfort with the decision.”  His recollection was that the Council decision was based on a verbal agreement earlier in the year.”  The Minister’s visit had been extremely difficult to arrange and he would be happy to review the process for future such invitations.”  He had approached the Minister’s office earlier in the week to seek acceptance of questions from the floor, but was advised it was too late to change the protocol.”  Cheri Waititi supported the President’s comments and hoped that the Minister would leave the meeting with points to consider from the prepared statement.

Resolved:

That in future Conference only invites government ministers who are prepared to take questions from the floor.” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: Tom McGrath

Seconded: Sue Bretherton

CARRIED

Action: President

Tangi Tipene said Māori members had met the day before and supported silent protest in the absence of being able to question the Minister by the display of placards around the room.

4) address by the hon anne tolley – minister of education, minister for tertiary education

At 12.10 p.m Tom Ryan introduced The Hon. Anne Tolley, Minister for Education, Minister for Tertiary Education and Minister responsible for the Education Review Office.”  He thanked Mrs Tolley for accepting the invitation to speak to the first conference of TEU.

The Minister thanked TEU for the invitation to speak and made the following points:

• Government appreciated the sector’s efforts in establishing and maintaining world class teaching and research.
• Government recognised that the long term health and wellbeing for this country depended in part on tertiary study.
• 2008-09 Government expenditure on tertiary education was $5 billion including tuition, loans and allowances.”  In tight economic times there were not the financial resources to fund an ever increasing tertiary sector.
• Need to be smarter and more focused on best value for tertiary education to ensure qualifications are high quality and meet needs of students and future employers.
• Government set clear goals for tertiary education: simplify funding system, reduce bureaucracy, centralise accountability, improve interface between schools and tertiary institutions.
• Developing new tertiary education strategy to implement these objectives.
• Long term goals (5-10 years)

1)” ” ” ” ”  provide New Zealanders of all backgrounds opportunities to gain world class skills and knowledge.

2)” ” ” ” ”  Build high quality research

3)” ” ” ” ”  Māori to achieve tertiary education success.

• Consultation on the tertiary education strategy closed on 6 November and views would provide valuable feedback.”  New strategy should be finalised by end of year to inform investment planning 2011-2013.
• Targeting priority groups: need to ensure students achieve.
• Improve completion rates: targeted incentives for higher level qualifications.
• Māori and Pacifika are under-represented in higher level qualifications and completion rates are lower.
• Young people entering because of financial situation: need to ensure that their tertiary education experience is valuable.”  Strengthening interface between secondary and tertiary institutions – Youth Guarantee Programme, ultimate aim for this to be available to all 16-17 year olds.
• Improve performance in tertiary education system.”  Education Polytechnics Amendment Bill is a move by the government to ensure strong governance in Polytechnics.
• Focus on research.

Cheri Waititi thanked the Minister for her address and said members appreciated her presence given that she would be aware of the level of dissatisfaction in the sector with regard to some recent decisions made.”  The TEU wished to aspire to the goals outlined by the Minister but there were major points of disagreement:

• The slashing of bulk funding to community education being one area.”  Community education was seen to foster those people who had been let down by the education system to progress to further education.
• Cap on student enrolments
• Cut backs on graduate scholarships
• Changes to Councils – quality Councils were built from members of the community.
• Anti student legislation – students should have access to all education, learning about their rights in a first nation country.
• Impact of the government’s decision on tertiary education is evident in industrial action taking place. 0% increases were insupportable in face of rising living costs.”  Members of TEU are angry that employers are demanding greater productivity – something that has been delivered consistently over past years.”  Discretionary leave is essential for members to undertake administration and quality research that the government is promoting.

Cheri Waititi said the Minister had the power to influence the sector as a whole and hoped the TEU’s response to her address would influence her decisions to have a positive impact on growth within the sector, and the country.”  To close the gap with Australia, government must put resources into the sector.

The Minister left the meeting at 1.30 p.m.

Lunch break 12.30 – 1.30 p.m

On reconvening Tom Ryan thanked Cheri Waititi for her eloquent and appropriate speech on behalf of the TEU and this was endorsed and supported by acclamation.

5) address by Grahame mcculloch, general secretary, national tertiary education union (australia)

Joce Jesson welcomed Grahame McCulloch, who has been a strong voice for the rights of staff in Australia and a proponent for education for citizenship.”  Grahame McCulloch thanked the TEU for the warm welcome and extended greetings and congratulations from the 25,000 NTEU members in Australia on this first conference post merger, and to Tom Ryan and Sharn Riggs on their appointments.”  He made a presentation on Tertiary Education in the Australian context:

• Spread of teaching universities, staff engaged in applied vocational education.
• New collective bargaining and award regime – Fair Work Australia.
• 2008-2012 Bargaining Campaign core claims include an indigenous employment clause.
• Provided summary of pay offers for comparison with New Zealand.
• Budget bid 10% current growth by 2010: some commitment by Government towards 5% by 2012 but elections will take place prior to 2012.
• Climate change central issue and will be included in bargaining claims.”  Invitation extended to TEU to participate in major conference beginning 2010 on climate change.
• Membership up 5% this year.”  Hope to repeat next year.
• Co-operation: economic and higher education flow across the Tasman.
• Possible combined “Aus NZ financial database.
• Complementary bargaining strategies.

Lynn Boddington thanked Grahame McCulloch for his presentation.

6) REPORTS

a) National Secretary’s Report

Sharn Riggs presented her report.”  Challenges to launch of new union

• Governance and structure
• Membership
• Staffing
• Political Activities
• Industrial Matters
• Professional Matters

Sharn Riggs said the merger year had been very challenging for staff and members, and extended her thanks to staff for their focus on a particularly intensified work programme.”  2010 needs to be a year of consolidation, building on the work undertaken this year and growing numbers – in particular general staff.”  She extended thanks to the members of the sector groups, committees, branches and Council for their forbearance in coming to grips with a new structure.

b) Financial Report

c) Audited Accounts

Tom Ryan welcomed Roger Shackleford, BDO Spicers to speak to the audited accounts in the following order:

• ASTE (for 6 months ended 31 December 2008)
• AUS (for 12 months ended 31 December 2008)

Questions were invited and were answered on the accounts.”  Roger Shackleford was thanked at the conclusion of his presentation.

d) Draft Budget 2010 (Introduction)

Sharn Riggs clarified the TEU financial year was January – December.”  The budget would be voted on the following day.”  The budget was based on extrapolation of figures from the previous years from both organisations, recognising that there were still some significant challenges around coding and branch mergers.”  Sharn Riggs focused on key points and welcomed questions from the floor.

• The TEU were encouraged to think about sustainability more actively and move to a paperless environment where possible.
• The budget for Pasifika was noted positively, but questioned if this should be increased in recognition of Pasifika recruitment membership targets and clarity was sought on where Fono would appear in the strategic plan timetable.
• Clarity was sought on representation of capitation, whether this was the entire amount paid by members.
• There should be sufficient time allowed for questions on the budget to be heard in the open meeting, and Sharn Riggs confirmed that there would be time for this the following day before the vote, although any member of Council could be approached individually with questions on the budget.

It was resolved:

That the following reports be accepted:

National Secretary’s Report

Financial Report

Audited Accounts

Membership Report

Benevolent Fund Report” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: Tom Ryan

Seconded: Pania Melbourne

CARRIED

A request was made for reports from industrial officers on personal grievance cases to be included in the National Secretary’s Report, and clarity under the Benevolent Fund Report, and Employment Relations Authority 34/36 hours.”  Sharn Riggs advised that the first two items were in part related to database difficulties and would definitely be addressed in the future, and the latter would be dealt with in the ITP workshops.

Action: Sharn Riggs

Roger Shackleford left the meeting at 3.20 p.m.

7) WORKSHOPS

Conference members then broke into Workshops on the following topics:

Delegate Structures

General Staff

Campaigns

Performance Based Research Fund (PBRF)

Reviews and Restructuring

GUEST SPEAKERS: SOPHIA BLAIR AND JORDAN KING, CO-PRESIDENTS, NEW ZEALAND UNION OF STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Sandra Grey introduced guest speakers Sophia Blair and Jordan King.”  A message of solidarity and support to those institutions currently facing industrial action was offered from NZUSA.”  They raised issues faced by students:

• students have not seen the brighter future promised in the election campaign
• student unemployment over the holiday break would be at its highest over the last decade, and there is no fallback option
• cuts to scholarships, financial barriers
• lack of funding for community study
• use of completion rates
• changes to Polytechnic Councils
• proposed voluntary student association membership bill.

Tania Loughlin thanked Sophia and Jordan for their presentation as key stakeholders in tertiary education.

Sophia Blair and Jordan King left the meeting at 4.55 p.m.

9) TE HAU TIKANGA O TE TIRITI – TIRITI PARTNERSHIP GROUP

A co-presentation was made by the Treaty Partnership group outlining:

• Composition
• Draft terms of reference
• 2010 Work Plan
• Resources.

10) CAUCUSES

The meeting broke for Women, ITP, University and University Bargaining caucuses at 4.55 p.m, which was then followed by the Conference dinner:

TUESDAY 10 NOVEMBER 2009

Karakia

Tom Ryan welcomed everyone to the second day of the Conference which commenced at 9.30a.m with karakia and waiata led by Bill Rogers.

MESSAGE OF SUPPORT FOR MEMBERS FACING INDUSTRIAL ACTION

It was resolved:

That this first annual conference of TEU Te HautūKahurangi o Aotearoa endorses and supports the struggle of TEU members in Whitireia, WinTec, Western Institute of Technology, Bay of Plenty Polytechnic, Unitec and NorthTec to maintain their core conditions of work which contribute to providing quality education for New Zealanders and gain a modest wage increase to keep up with the cost of living.” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: Steven Blumenfeld

Seconded: John Prince

CARRIED (by acclamation)

Amendment proposed

There was discussion on, and support given for Branches to consider the contribution from branch funds of money to the strike fund to show support for their colleagues.

11) POLICY PAPERS

Tom Ryan advised Nanette Cormack would be conducting any formal voting procedures should this be required for this section of the meeting, and reminded members that only delegates could formally vote.

RESEARCH AND DEGREE TEACHING

It was moved:

That paragraph 1 of the policy on Page 13 be amended to read:

“Research activity for those engaged…new knowledge relevant to the researcher’s subject matter, discipline or profession being taught (i.e. basic or pure research).”  In the same way…for students.” Moved: Helen Charters

There was discussion on the proposed amendment, in particular over the inclusion of the word “researcher”.”  It was noted that the documentation had already been circulated to Branches for consideration, however Branch representatives could vote at Conference representing their Branches on such issues.

Whilst noting that the policy had been consulted on extensively, there was support for the recommended amendment, it was agreed that a formal motion be drafted and considered later in the meeting.

RESEARCH ASSESSMENT:

Tom Ryan invited comment on the policy document.

Grant Duncan advised the policy was discussed at length at the PBRF workshop yesterday where concerns about measurement of research quality had led to a request that it be set aside for further drafting and consultation.”  A policy on the PBRF was urgently required for Branches as the PBRF impact on members was now an industrial issue.”  Joce Jesson supported this view but felt that a formal remit was necessary to show that the TEU does not accept government measuring research in this way.

It was resolved:

That the Research Assessment policy be set aside for further consultation and drafting.

Moved: Grant Duncan

Seconded: George Hill

CARRIED

It was noted that Council could vote on a revised policy paper to ensure that it is efficiently handled rather than waiting for 2010 Conference.

LIANZA PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION SCHEME:

Helen Kissell was invited to speak to the draft policy.”  This had been distributed late to the branches which meant that they had not been afforded the same time for consultation.”  The policy had been supported by AUS in 2009 and by general staff but had not been presented to 2009 Conference.”  It was agreed that the LIANZA professional registration scheme be considered at Conference despite the shortened consultation period.

Helen Kissell proposed two amendments to the policy which were discussed.”  It was agreed, given the general support for the amendments that these be drafted and considered for vote later in the meeting.

HOSTING GUESTS TO CONFERENCE

Jack Heinemann put forward a view from the Canterbury Branch, who wished to comment on invited guests who were openly hostile to the union and yet were welcomed to social occasions.

It was moved:

That if those who are openly hostile to the union are invited as guests to dine in the future, they must sing for their supper.” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: Jack Heinemann

There was some support for the sentiment expressed in the motion.”  However, it was noted that it was important for the TEU to develop and maintain relationships with key figures for the promotion of the TEU’s objectives.

It was agreed with the approval of Canterbury Branch that the motion be left on the table and that its sentiment and the views of Conference be part of the Conference record.

12) GUEST SPEAKER: BILL ROSENBERG – NZCTU POLICY DIRECTOR AND ECONOMIST

Helen Kissell welcomed Bill Rosenberg to address the meeting.”  Bill Rosenberg thanked TEU for the invitation and made a presentation on an alternative economic strategy considered at CTU Conference.”  CTU would arrange workshops to discuss this proposal with the final document prepared by June 2010.”  He hoped that TEU as an affiliate would enter that debate.

Questions were invited:

• Any analysis of how social indicators i.e. child poverty rates and health have been impact assessed? Good MSD report on their website that looks at that impact.

• Will involvement in free trade agreements improve things? These are largely to increase access for dairy products and to a lesser extent other agricultural commodities.”  They ignore effects on the economy and make it difficult to nurture other manufacturers, and create difficulties in service industries.

Barry Foster thanked Bill Rosenberg for his stimulating presentation and this was followed by a waiata.

13) INTRODUCTION: TEVITA KOROI, PRESDIENT, FIJIAN TEACHERS’ UNION

Tom Ryan welcomed Tevita Koroi to the meeting and thanked him for his attendance.

Morning Tea 11.10 a.m.

14) GUEST SPEAKER: PAT FORWARD, FEDERAL TAFE SECRETARY, AUSTRALIAN EDUCATION UNION

Ken Laraman welcomed Pat Forward to speak to the Conference.”  Pat Forward thanked TEU for the invitation to the its first Conference and congratulated the union on the amalgamation.”  She gave an overview of the Australian Education Union which covers teachers in schools, primary, secondary and kindergarten, as well as members in TAFE colleges.”  Key points:

• Focus is currently on contemporary events with particular reference to international education in Australia.”  Previously focus has been on the design of markets rather than students.
• International students and private providers
• Gaining profit not education primary focus
• Market flood lower cost end
• More regulations required
• Students have to sit job ready test prior to being granted residency – what reflection is this on quality of education.

Joce Jesson thanked Pat Forward for her address.

15) TEU GOALS 2010 WORKSHOPS

Sharn Riggs outlined arrangements for breaking into workshops for academic staff and general staff to look through goals to assess relevance, and suggestions for change.”  Recommendations will be brought back to the TEU office for consideration at the first Council meeting in 2010.”  These sessions would be followed by lunch at 1.00 p.m. and Conference would reconvene at 2.00 p.m.

16) FINANCIAL RECOMMENDATIONS

DRAFT BUDGET 2010

The President confirmed that the budget had been discussed and approved by the Finance and Staffing Committee and moved for its adoption and opened the floor for discussion.”  The following points were clarified:

• Tolls and postage decrease: new telephone system would provide significant savings.
• Printing and copying decrease:”  new photocopier permitting more in-house copying.
• Budget line requested for General Staff Activity Days: would be covered in re-coding.

It was resolved:

That the budget 2010 be adopted.” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: From the Chair

CARRIED

It was resolved:

That BDO Spicer be appointed as TEU Auditor for 2010.” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: From the Chair

CARRIED

A no change approach to the annual subscription was proposed.

It was resolved:

That the annual subscription for membership of the TEU for 2010 be 0.8% of the member’s salary, with a maximum of $550 (GST inclusive). “ ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: From the Chair

CARRIED

17) POLICY REMITS

RESEARCH AND DEGREE TEACHING

Helen Charters was invited to speak to her motion for amendment of the policy document.

It was resolved:

That paragraph 1 of the policy on Research and Degree Teaching be amended as follows:

“Research activity for those engaged…new knowledge relevant to the researcher’s subject matter, discipline or profession being taught (i.e. basic or pure research).”  In the same way…for students.” Moved: Helen Charters

Seconded: Annmarie Jutel

CARRIED

It was resolved:

That the amended policy on Research and Degree Teaching be adopted.

Moved: From the Chair

CARRIED

PBRF

Joce Jesson was invited to speak to her motion regarding the use of PBRF scores.

It was resolved:

That the TEU will support any member who believes their employment rights to undertake teaching and/or research as they determine are threatened by the imposition of PBRF processes and criteria.”" ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  “ ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: Joce Jesson

Seconded: Helen Charters

CARRIED

18) GUEST SPEAKER: TEVITA KOROI, PRESDIENT, FIJIAN TEACHERS’ UNION

Tom Ryan was delighted to welcome Tevita Koroi as the keynote speaker for the conference.”  Mr Koroi has been the President of the Fijian Teachers’ Association for a number of years and was recently re-elected to the Asia Pacific Executive of Education International.”  His stand on democracy and human rights was also outlined.

Tevita Koroi brought greetings from the Fiji Executive Committee, members and the Fiji Island Council of Trade Unions, and thanked the TEU for the invitation.”  He shared the challenges facing colleagues in Fiji and thanked Fiji associations in New Zealand for their support.”  He welcomed questions from the floor.

Tangi Tipene thanked Tevita Koroi for his keynote presentation which was endorsed by acclamation.

CAUCUS

Sharn Riggs said that Te Upeūwished to caucus at 3.00pm for a short while and provision would be made for this.

19) POLICY PAPERS REMITS CONTINUED

LIANZA PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION SCHEME

Helen Kissell was invited to speak to her motion for amendment of the policy document.

It was resolved that the following amendments be made to the LIANZA Professional Registration Scheme Policy:

“Policy Statement:

The LIANZA…maintained.”  As such, TEU supports the LIANZA professional registration scheme “as an example” of a framework for which ongoing professional development for librarians can be achieved and maintained;

TEU support for the scheme is also provisional on the following conditions being met by the employer:

1. 1. Fairness…sole reason for non-appointment of a qualified librarian to a qualified position.
   1. 2. Where LIANZA…registration cost.
   2. 3. TEU expects that a good employer…maintain the skill levels expected for professional development and training in registration.”  These training opportunities should not be provided to the detriment of other staff training, including for library staff who are not eligible for professional registration or who do not wish to pursue a LIANZA registration.”

Moved: Helen Kissell

Seconded: Lindsay Ainsworth

CARRIED

It was resolved:

That the amended policy on the LIANZA Professional Registration Scheme be adopted.

Moved: From the Chair

CARRIED

20) RULES AMENDMENTS

Rules Amendment 2: That each Branch of the Union have a Te Uepū(Māori) Representative:

Tangi Tipene spoke to the amendment which was proposed by Hui-ā-Motu and Te Toi Ahurangi.”  There was discussion on the potential constitutional effect on branches should this be agreed.

It was resolved:

That each Branch of the Union have a Te Uepū(Māori) representative and that Rule 9.3 be amended to read:

“There shall be a President, Treasurer or Secretary-Treasurer, and Te Uepūrepresentative in each branch and, in addition, there may be such other officers as the Branch may from time to time determine.”  The additional officers may, wherever possible, include an immediate past-president or presidents, a vice-president, a membership officer, a women’s representative and sector representatives.”

Moved: Tangi Tipene

Seconded: Tania Loughlin

CARRIED

Rules Amendment 6: Change to Branches Clause 9.3

Joneen Walker spoke to the amendment which was proposed by the National Women’s Committee, Te Kahurangi Māreikura.

It was resolved:

That clause 9.3 of the Rules have the first sentence amended to read:

“There shall be a President and Treasurer or Secretary-Treasurer and Women’s Representative in each Branch…”" ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: Joneen Walker

Seconded: Sue Bretherton

CARRIED

Rules Amendment 3: That the nomenclature of the Union rules is consistent:

Eric Stone and Pania Bryant spoke to the amendment which was proposed by Hui-ā-Motu and Te Tiriti Working Group seeking to clarify how the Tiriti partnership could be reinforced.

There was discussion on the use of the term Tauiwi which was seen as more inclusive than the term Pakeha for people who have come from other countries but now live in New Zealand.

It was resolved:

That Rule 3.8 be amended to read:

“All references within the rules to “tauiwi” are replaced with “Pakehā”; “tangata whenua” with “tangata Māori”, “Māori representative” and “te pou tautoko” with “Te Uepū“.” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: Eric Stone

Seconded: Pania Bryant

CARRIED

Rules Amendment 4: That the Te Uepūrepresentative on Te Kahurangi Māreikura be a member of Te Toi Ahurangi:

It was resolved:

That Rule 13.9 be amended to read:

“Te Toi Ahurangi shall comprise te Kāhui Kaumātua, the National Māori Vice President, Te Tumu Arataki (who shall chair the meetings of the Committee), the other two Māori representatives on the Council, Ngā Tumu Āwhina, and one academic and one general staff member from the University Sector Group, and one academic and one general staff member from the ITP Sector Group, and two general staff members from the General Staff Sector Group and one Te Kahurangi Māreikura representative appointed by the Hui-ā-Motu.”" ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Moved: Tamara Hape

Seconded: Marcia Murray

CARRIED

Rules Amendment 5: Proposed Rule Changes to 13.3 – National Committees

Proposed by National Women’s Committee, Te Kahurangi Māreikura

It was resolved:

That Rule 13.3 be amended to take effect from1 January 2011:

“The National Women’s Committee, Te Kahurangi Māreikura, shall comprise the National Women’s Vice-President (who shall chair the meetings of the Committee), a woman member appointed by the Hui-ā-Motu, four women representatives of the academic staff members of the union and four women representatives of the general staff members of the union elected biennially by the women members of the union.”

Moved: Lyndsay Ainsworth

Seconded: Vicki-Lee Tyacke

CARRIED

Rules Amendment 1: Membership and Subscription Levies for Casual/Fixed-Term Employees in the Tertiary Sector:

Sandra Grey spoke to the amendment which was proposed by the National Women’s Committee, Te Kahurangi Māreikura.”  The proposed amendment was fully discussed.

It was resolved:

“That the Membership (5) and Subscriptions and levies (6) rules be amended to encourage and facilitate membership of TEU for casual and fixed-term (of short duration) staff in the tertiary sector and to ensure continuity of membership for those tertiary sector staff.”

Proposed new wording:

“a) That membership in the TEU for an employee on a casual or fixed-term agreement (of short duration) in the tertiary sector shall be continuous for a year from the first payment of a membership fee by that member;

b) That annual membership of the TEU for casual or fixed-term agreement (of short duration) employees earning less than $5,000 per annum gross from their tertiary sector employment shall be capped at $15 per annum;

and that annual membership of the TEU for casual or fixed-term agreement (of short duration) employees earning between $5,000 and $10,000 per annum gross from their tertiary sector employment shall be capped at $30 per annum.

Moved: Sandra Grey

Seconded: Nick Wallingford

CARRIED

GENERAL BUSINESS

PBRF SUPPORT

Joce Jesson suggested that a policy discussion group on the PBRF be established to support Grant Duncan in his work representing the TEU on the TEC PBRF Sector Reference Group.”  Interested members were invited to put their names forward on a list being circulated.

RESPONSE TO MINISTER

Te Aroha Lemke made a special presentation to Cheri Waititi with the thanks of the Conference as affirmation for her acting as a voice for the TEU in her reply to the Minister. Cheri’s response was delivered with integrity and dignity and she had represented the members well.”  The President also extended his personal thanks to Cheri for taking on this difficult responsibility at short notice, and with great dignity.

VOTES OF THANKS

Tauwehe Tamati and Te Aroha Lemke on behalf of Te Uepūextended a speech of thanks to departing Immediate Past President Tangi Tipene.”  Tom Ryan followed with his farewell speech paying tribute to Tangi.”  Tangi responded and acknowledged Dr Maureen Montgomery and Dr Tom Ryan for working so well with her as well as the members and people who worked for the merger.”  She thanked the Kāhui Kaumatua, the TEU staff, her branch president and her family for their support.

PRESIDENT’S CLOSING

The President thanked Sharn Riggs and the staff for their considerable efforts during the first year of the merged TEU.”  He also thanked the national officers of the union, the branch officers, the vice presidents and delegates for attending and participating in the work of the union.

Rachel Brown was thanked for the Conference organisation.”  The Kāhui Kaumātua were thanked for their unstinting support and advice.

21) WHAKAWĀTEA – KARAKIA AND WAIATA:

Bill Rogers conducted the closing karakia, followed by himene and the Conference concluded at 4.30 p.m.

The minutes were confirmed:

National President:” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ” ”  Date:

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