Union talk for ‘start of plant’

JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
Barwon Water is set to announce the start of work on a $94 million treatment plant despite an ongoing industrial dispute over the project.
Key unions are preparing to meet 8am this Friday to discuss a pay proposal for the project but Barwon Water has organised a photo opportunity at 10am to mark the start of construction.
Barwon Water said the cost of the plant had also increased $4 million on the initial estimate.
The Independent reported in November that the project was on hold amid the pay dispute between contractor John Holland Construction and unions.
Geelong Trades Hall secretary Tim Gooden said today’s meeting was part of on-going negotiations.
Representatives of five unions would be involved in the meeting at Geelong Trades Hall, he said.
“They’ll look at the proposal and possible outcomes. While we’re fairly confident, it still has to be approved.”
Mr Gooden said major works would not begin at the site until May despite the Barwon Water announcement.
“They’ll get the surveyors in and do some ground work. I think they’ve got one of the ministers coming down to turn a sod but nothing major will happen until after Easter.”
November’s Independent report said the union agreement sought pay rates up to $1656.17 for a 35-hour week, in line with other treatment plant projects.
The dispute flared after the unions accused Barwon Water of an “act of bastardry with John Holland to undermine industrial standards”.
The unions also threatened an industrial campaign if they could not reach an agreement on the project.
Mr Gooden said the union demands were fair and in accordance with the law and industry practice.
A Barwon Water spokesman said in November that authority believed the union’s offer would increase the cost of the project.
Barwon Water and John Holland both said they had handed over labour hire to employment sub-contractors.