PUBLIC DUTY AND RESPONSIBILITY

Just before the festive break (which I hope you had an opportunity to enjoy) I made mention of our intention to hold the MoJ to account over the ongoing safety and operational issues that have featured large in our campaign against the TR share sale.

Just one week into 2015 and we are already seeing evidence that service delivery is in some cases way off where we were told it was expected to be. Some managers have expressed their concerns to us that the situation is unlikely to substantially change between now and the intended CRC mobilisation date of 1^ST February.

I acknowledge that CRC senior managers have been obliged to carry out the Secretary of States directions regarding TR, but they also have a duty of care to staff and a duty of public protection. The situation that now needs addressing is who is going to take responsibility for these obligations.

We need to ensure that the new owners of the CRC’s are fully aware of the operational problems and are fully equipped to do what they can to resolve them both for members wellbeing and that of communities. It is also vital that Grayling is held to account for his promises and assurances. That’s why it is vital that we continue to gather evidence that the system is operationally unfit for purpose. Look out for the next Campaign Bulletin for further details, due to be issued shortly.

Not forgetting other important matters

Further to the 0% pay offer that we have been formally presented with, we have been in talks with Unison to consider our options. A detailed briefing will be issued to members on Friday setting out why we have not agreed to the imposed payment of the contractual progression arrangements since we are of the view that these are separate from what ought to be a negotiated pay settlement, and why we believe more money ought to be found to fund an increase for everyone.

We will keep you posted on developments. Meanwhile it’s probably not very reassuring that this grand economic recovery we keep hearing about from George Osborne and partners is being helped along by yet another reduction in the pay of public service workers. People who do a damned sight more everyday by way of a meaningful contribution to society than the wasters who preside over us.

Christine Straw

Sad news reached us this morning of the sudden death of Christine Straw, Deputy Director HR Probation who passed away unexpectedly yesterday. Christine joined NOMS last June having formerly served within Hampshire Probation Trust since 2006 and will be well known to many of our members in that area. Christine was a member of the recently reconvened National Negotiating Council and it is a pity that we did not get the chance to build an effective working relationship with her.  

Napo sends it condolences to Christines family and friends.

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