Services Union launches Industrial Relations Commission action against Gold Coast City Council in library staff stoush

The union representing Gold Coast library staff has launched proceedings and says there’s “no sound reason for these employees to be kept out of the libraries”.

THE Services Union has started proceedings against the Gold Coast City Council over its alleged failure to end the stand down of 18 library employees.

In a statement, it said that libraries ordered to close at the height of the COVID-19 crisis had been able to reopen to the public since May 16, 2020.

Services Union secretary Neil Henderson. Picture: Stewart McLean

Services Union secretary Neil Henderson said there was “no sound reason for these employees to be kept out of the libraries”.

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“Bear in mind that GCCC was one of only two councils in Queensland that stood down library employees. We know that the public is keen to get back into the libraries and there are dozens of councils around Queensland now providing a library service with all staff back at work.

“There is no good reason for the approach GCCC is taking,” Mr Henderson said.

The council has been contacted for comment about its libraries. Picture: iStock/Zephyr18

Council CEO Dale Dickson last night replied: “Over the last three months the City has engaged extensively with employees and the Services Union. The City will defend its position.”

The dispute will be heard in the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission at a date to be confirmed.

The Bulletin last week reported the Gold Coast’s 12 libraries would remain closed despite Brisbane opening 33 of its facilities to cater for 20 people each as part of social distancing restrictions.

The Gold Coast City Council did not explain at the time the reasons why the libraries remained closed.