It can never be overstated that members are the association; the association cannot exist without your input. Constabulary pay round negotiations are fast approaching and it will take all of us working together to argue our case for a fair and constructive bargaining process and outcome.
From here on, maintaining our campaign momentum is crucial.
The strain of tough economic conditions, exacerbated by the massive war-driven increase in fuel prices, are hiking the costs of all manner of everyday essentials. It’s not as if life wasn’t challenging enough before the Middle East conflict. The resulting instability in world markets has now put more pressure on household budgets, intensifying the reality of our campaign call.
Reading the stories shared on the campaign postcards has been a stark reminder of the long tail of the cost‑of‑living crisis and the real hardship many of you continue to face. The reality of those economic challenges is multiplied when reading of the risks you confront in the line of duty.
These accounts are powerful and they underscore exactly why this campaign matters.
I’m also heartened by the strong messages of support from Police employee members, who stand firmly with this effort. Even though your collective agreement does not expire until next year, you have made it clear that we are all absolutely in this together. Repay the Risk!
Running alongside the pay round is the work of the remuneration design group (RDG), which I have discussed at annual meetings throughout the country. Its work is progressing well, and the final design is close.
Two key features of the proposal are a reduction in the number of steps within the B-J bands and simplification of the allowance structure. We have long discussed addressing the time it takes an officer to reach the top of their bands, particularly when compared with other professions such as teaching and nursing.
Pivotal to any agreement is that no member is financially disadvantaged by the redesign.
I’m encouraged by the work undertaken by Korn Ferry – an independent, internationally recognised remuneration design firm – together with our RDG advisers from across the motu and national office staff.
Significant work is still required before final presentation and implementation but progress to date indicates real potential to deliver meaningful improvements for members.
Your continued participation in our campaign is central to maintaining our compelling case, so keep up the messaging and use every opportunity to reinforce the need for those in charge of the purse strings to Repay the Risk!
