Openreach West of Scotland
ATTENDANCE ARRANGEMENTS – JOINT STATEMENT
On Wednesday 6th February 2008 Fergie Collier (General Manager West of Scotland) met with the CWU in the West of Scotland.
As a direct result of the recent set of negotiations between management and the CWU an understanding has now been reached between both parties. This can now allow changes to the existing attendance arrangements of engineers, while importantly taking into account the work / life balance of our people. These changes are recognised in assisting Openreach in meeting the changing commercial environment and dynamic market place.
Both management and the CWU recognise the importance of achieving an agreed way forward and the intensive negotiations of the last few days have further proved this point.
Revised formal proposals have now been put to the CWU which will be recommended by their representatives at Branch meetings next week for ratification. If accepted the date of implementation of changes will move to the 7th April 2008.
The CWU recognises the constantly changing business environment in which Openreach operates and the ongoing need for reviewing and changing attendance arrangements including later finish times to reflect this. They are committed to working with Openreach to achieve the required attendance arrangements along the journey of change.
Management recognise that the success of Openreach depends upon the co-operation and support of their people. Therefore are committed to striving for agreement in order that together a strong and committed workforce can meet the undoubted challenges facing Openreach.
In conclusion it is hoped that the proposals will be accepted and we can continue to work together in partnership to meet the service demands that face Openreach and also provide an industry leading family friendly working environment.
John Donnelly Fergie Collier
CWU General Manager West of Scotland