Marist Youth Care Fair Rosters Campaign

Western Sydney youth workers to rally over pay cuts

Details

Published on Thursday, 20 November, 2008

Up to 80 youth workers will rally outside the Marist Youth Care Head Office in Blacktown tomorrow following moves to cut the workers pay by up to $200 a week.

The Marist Youth Care workers, who provide residential care and support for high needs young people, will meet to discuss the next steps in their campaign following management’s refusal to negotiate with its workers over the pay cuts.

Australian Services Union (ASU) Secretary Sally McManus said despite a 12 per cent increase in funding, mismanagement within the organisation has led to a financial crisis that the CEO proposes to fix by cutting workers wages.

“This is a blatant case of fiscal mismanagement by the organisation and now they’re asking the workers to pay for their mistakes.

“Despite the workers putting forward many viable solutions, management insists the only solution is to cut workers wages.

“These workers are not just concerned with their wages, they are also concerned about the quality of care and support for the young people. This is a very committed group of individuals and there is a severe shortage of skilled workers who are able to and prepared to commit to these high needs young people who cannot live with their own families. Despite all this, the base wage for youth work is a low $42,000 a year.”

Ms McManus said the workers will be considering further industrial action at the meeting.

“Industrial action is not something these workers take lightly. They want this issue resolved as quickly and as painlessly as possible so they can get back to doing what they love but at the moment they haven’t been left with many other options.

“We’re talking about dedicated workers that are very passionate about their job. All they’re asking for is a fair go.”

STOP WORK MEETING & RALLY

WHEN:    Friday 21 November, 1pm
WHERE:   Marist Youth Care Head Office,151 Reservoir Rd, Blacktown
SPOKESPERSON:   Sally McManus, ASU Secretary