Family Friendly Policies Deserted

Date: 10 April 2003

In a disgraceful display of arrogance Dick Smith Electronics have refused to pay redundancy packages to two female employees sacked in the middle of a dispute. The Australian Services Union had already taken action on behalf of the two members who Dick Smith Electronics attempted to re-deploy into unacceptable positions in a bid to avoid the redundancy packages.

According to ASU Branch Secretary Michael Want this is a case of management cynically trying to avoid their legal responsibilities under the Award. "Our two members have worked faithfully for this company for years - one member having over 20 years service with Dick Smith Electronics. Now they are being rewarded with dismissal and management is trying to avoid paying them any redundancy."

"This is another example of a company using an insincere offer to re-deploy the workers in positions which are not reasonable. The workers sought the protection of the industrial relations system and have been sacked in the middle of the dispute. This shows a blatant contempt, not just for our members, but for the industrial relations system that is set up to protect workers from this sort of action."

The two women in the middle of the dispute are understandably angry and dismayed. They were both prepared to work with the company when advised that their positions would be re-deployed however both were then offered jobs that were totally unsuitable. One, who has a son with cerebral palsy was offered a job with hours that would make it impossible to work and care for her son.

"This union has taken a stance on many occasions to push for family friendly workplaces and Dick Smith Electronics have clearly signalled their intention to ignore that policy," said Michael Want.

"Company executives are paid huge amounts of money when they are terminated, however once again workers are left high and dry. The union is now taking action to have our members paid all of their entitlements and redundancy provisions out in full."

Both workers are available for comment to the media.

For further details please ring Michael Want on 0409 128 164 or Tania Mihailuk on 0419 970 621 or (02) 9265 8211.

For further information

Contact:	Michael Want
Union:	Australian Services Union NSW Clerical & Administrative Branch
Phone:	(02) 9265 8211
Fax:	(02) 9261 2265
Email:	office@asuclerical-nsw.asn.au
WWW:	http://asuclerical-nsw.asn.au/

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