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TAFE under attack again:cut the wages then privatise
Tuesday 11 October 2011
The O'Farrell government's sudden announcement that TAFE teachers will be dumped into the federal industrial relations system is yet another blow for the public provider of vocational education and training, according to Greens NSW MP John Kaye.
Dr Kaye said, "Education Minister Adrian Piccoli is deliberately undermining the collective strength of public sector teachers and their union.
"Splitting TAFE teachers away from their colleagues in schools will no doubt make it easier for the O'Farrell government to attack wages and conditions.
"Teachers forced onto the Federal award are likely to face individual contracts. Staff will have to work longer hours for less pay. Student learning will inevitably suffer.
"Minister Piccoli's decision to cut TAFE off from the state public sector is another cog in the wheel of vocational education and training privatisation. Both the Gillard and O'Farrell governments have no interest in public provision.
"Like the public sector wage freeze laws, this fresh attack on the TAFE sector has come without warning. Negotiations over the new award were due to begin any day.
"The Greens are committed to defeating the legislation when it comes before the NSW Upper House in the next fortnight," Dr Kaye said.
For more information: John Kaye 0407 195 455
