Great Scott - Geoff's back

Date: 16 August 2001

SACKED Centrelink worker Geoff Scott was today reinstated by the Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC). In a written decision, the AIRC gave his employer 14 days to take him back, and awarded back pay.

On December, 29, Centrelink sacked Geoff Scott from his job in Wollongong, alleging he had failed to follow agency instructions. It was the contention of Geoff, his union and workmates that he had been victimised for assisting workmates and clients when the office had been under pressure.
The Sydney and Wollongong media quickly dubbed Geoff "the man who worked too hard".

Wollongong workers stuck beside Geoff. Some gave evidence on his behalf before the AIRC. Last week, dozens in offices throughout the Illawarra wore green ribbons to work to mark "Geoff's Day". Interstate colleagues sent emails of support.

On learning of today's reinstatement order, Geoff expressed thanks to workmates around the country.
"It's a relief to be vindicated," he said. "I am grateful for the support my case has received from other Centrelink workers, especially those I had worked with in the Illawarra.
"I'm looking forward to getting back to work."

CPSU national secretary, Wendy Caird, said Geoff's case had to be seen in the context of the current debate over Centrelink breaching procedures.

"We've got a situation, leading up to a federal election, where the Government is trying to hang Centrelink workers out to dry to cover-up for its meanness.
"What happened to Geoff Scott is an illustration of what can happen, in that environment, when a worker is prepared to go the extra mile on behalf of workmates or clients."

Ms Caird praised the "independent umpire" role of the AIRC, and said she hoped its decision would lessen pressure on other Centrelink workers.

For further information

Contact:	Wendy Caird
Union:	CPSU - National Office
Phone:	0418 970 833
Contact Mobile:	Media Off Dermot
Fax:	0408 265 081
Email:	dermot_browne@cpsu.org
WWW:	www.cpsu.org

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