Issue No 1 | 19 February 1999 | |
NewsGeeks Blow UpBy Noel Hester
In what is believed to be an industry first, software developers at Toshiba have been taking industrial action over the issue of work hours.
The programmers - who develop sensitive software used in the management of Japanese power stations - have been working to rule over excessive hours and unpaid overtime. A notice for strike action has brought management to the table after stalling for months. The programmers - members of the Australian Services Union - have been negotiating with Toshiba management for more than six months for a new Enterprise Agreement. According to the Australian Industry Group, at present there isn't a single collective agreement covering software developers in Australia. Union delegate Owen Caughley says they have been frustrated by Toshiba's refusal to deal with their concerns. 'We got our first concrete "offer" on Christmas Eve - almost 4 months after we first approached the company,' he said. 'Toshiba's offer was pathetic - a 38 hour week with single rates for overtime and all in the form of individual contracts.' 'We want penalty rates for overtime, and an EBA.' Owen Caughley says the issues of excessive hours and unpaid overtime is widespread throughout the industry. 'Most software people do at least 45 hours a week and less than a third get paid for overtime,' he said. 'However, the biggest danger is burnout. I've seen people after a week of crazy hours and they're like zombies.' 'It's clearly outrageous and shows why the issue is incredibly important to us and others in the industry.'
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Interview: Michael Costa The new Labor Council secretary explains factions, frictions and how to save the union movement. Unions: Getting Under The Skin The cash-in-transit industry - known for it's vulnerability to violence and theft - comes under scrutiny as the industry moves to a new "soft skin" operation History: Remembering the Labor Press Workers Online is just the latest in a long tradition of publishing by working people and their organisations. Review: Powderfinger's Political Power Pop We look at a band who still reckon they can mix music with a bit social commentary. Campaign Diary: Hartcher Chokes On His Own Uglies No-one would have been more surprised by last week�s announcement of the Coalition industrial relations policy than its spokesman on the issue, Chris Hartcher.
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