NAB to Slice 6000 Jobs?

Date: 29 June 2000

National Australia Bank's plan to reduce costs by shedding 6000 jobs over the next two years is socially irresponsible says FSU - It's time for the government to act!

"The National's strategy is a disaster for Australian jobs and yet another blow for customer service. It is time for the Howard Government to respond to the Australian community's call for a Social Charter of Community Service Obligations for banks." FSU National Assistant Secretary Barry Hirt said.

"It is not good enough for our members and their families to be reading about their future in the daily papers. Cynical announcements about massive job cuts to drive down costs are aimed at the stock market to drive the share price up. It is not about what is good for staff or for the broader community." Mr Hirt said.

The Finance Sector Union has demanded a meeting with the National to clarify the details of what they are planning. The current enterprise agreement, which is soon to be renegotiated, contains a number of job security safeguards including a requirement to consult with FSU.

"Through our Agreement the Union has ensured that every effort will be made to keep people in jobs, but announcements of this magnitude make it clear to us that job security will again be a major issue for our members in the next agreement."

" It is common sense that having enough staff is critical to providing good customer service. Front line staff and those who support them in back offices cannot continue to cop the heavy workloads and stress caused by insufficient staffing levels."

" It is clear the Banks, in spite of how profitable they are, have no commitment to addressing community and staff concerns. We believe a legislative approach is now required. Voluntary good behavior undertakings from banks are not credible - the Government must intervene and take decisive action." said Mr Hirt.

For further information

Contact:	Sharron Caddie
Union:	Finance Sector Union - National Office
Phone:	039 261 5328
Email:	sharron.caddie@fsunion.org.au
WWW:	http://www.fsunion.org.au

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