08-08-2024
Upper Lachlan Shire Councillors express their disappointment and concern over the industrial action taken by some staff members, led by the United Services Union (USU). The United Services Union has launched a campaign filled with misinformation and falsehoods aimed at not only their members within the Upper Lachlan Shire Council but also the broader community.
The USU has been distributing misleading leaflets across the shire and employing a digital signage truck to display false messages.
I, as Mayor query the validity of this action and question the source of some of the distributed material that appears to be unendorsed.
Councillor Culhane refuted the USU’s message claims that 18 months ago that the Council was financially okay, stating that the ULSC has always operated within its budget so from that perspective it is financially sound however in order to achieve a balanced budget, service levels have always been compromised to an extent. The difference now is that unless ULSC generates more income and/or reduces costs, it will no longer be financially sustainable into the future.
With respect to any staff position reductions the management of ULSC will do everything in its power to implement these actions first on vacant positions and where possible redeployment of affected staff. Actual forced redundancies will be the last resort.
Throughout the entire restructure process, Councillors have been receiving regular updates from the Council’s CEO and are fully aware of the numerous meetings held by supervisors, senior managers, directors, and the CEO with staff and key stakeholders, including the United Services Union.
I, as Mayor find it disappointing to learn that the USU has taken this action and coerced staff through blatant lies and misinformation into participating in the union’s industrial campaign.
This ongoing industrial action has significantly impacted community services. Waste collection has been affected, with bins left uncollected, and transfer stations not operating.
As the community continues to be impacted due to the union’s industrial action, Councillors are aware of the closures and reduced capacity of some shire services. Residents are advised to monitor the Council’s website and Facebook page for updates on affected services.
Members of the United Services Union have informed us that they will be meeting with their membership this morning.
“We, as Councillors, stand firmly behind the management of Upper Lachlan Shire Council. Restructuring services and staffing is never an easy task, and it affects everyone involved.
Councillors remain dedicated to ensuring the financial independence and sustainability of the Upper Lachlan and ask for the community’s patience during this challenging time.
Statement on behalf of: Mayor Pamela Kensit, Deputy Mayor Mandy McDonald, Cr Paul Culhane, Cr Nathan McDonald, Cr Darren O’Brien, Cr John Searl, Cr Susan Reynolds and Cr Lauren Woodbridge.