David O’Byrne slams ‘Orwellian’ TasNetworks message on staff computers
The use of TasNetworks computers to display messages urging staff to accept a pay offer was reminiscent of George Orwell’s book 1984, independent MP David O’Byrne says.
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The use of TasNetworks computers to display messages urging staff to accept a pay offer was reminiscent of George Orwell’s book 1984, independent MP David O’Byrne says.
The member for Franklin said TasNetworks leadership had installed screen saver images across every computer in their workplace.
He said the content misled staff on their voting options in enterprise agreement negotiations.
“The screen saver claims a vote against the company’s current offer would mean that not only would they not receive a wage increase, but also that Christmas leave would be cancelled,” Mr O’Byrne said.
“How about welcome to work everyone, have a nice day? This is a dishonest, manipulative approach and is disrespectful to staff.
“All staff will receive a wage increase at the conclusion of these negotiations, regardless of how they vote — all that’s up for debate is how much of an increase.
“And guess what? Christmas break and leave will occur as normal.”
Minister for Energy and Renewables Nick Duigan referred Mr O’Byrne to the company.
“That is a pretty operational matter and I will refer you to government business enterprise scrutiny [hearings],” he said. Those hearings start on December 3.
TasNetworks CEO, Sean McGoldrick said there was nothing novel about the graphic.
“This is an exceptional offer that supports and rewards our people better than ever before, while protecting Tasmanians’ power prices,” he said.
“That includes the 14 per cent pay rise, and lump-sum $6,000 cost of living support.
“The salary and benefits of our people are on par with, and in some cases better than, their interstate colleagues.
“There’s nothing new in this factual and innocuous infographic to staff.”
Mr O’Byrne said TasNetworks management had adopted one of the most belligerent approaches to negotiations he had seen in decades.
“They are treating taxpayers with such disregard they are using $5m of our money bribing workers with a one off $6000 payment just to beat the union,” he said
“This is petty and vindictive.”
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