Application by Communications, Electrical, Electronic, Energy, Information, Postal, Plumbing and Allied Services Union of Australia

[2016] FWC 1654

[2016] FWC 1654

DECISION

Fair Work Act 2009

s.437—Protected action

Communications, Electrical, Electronic, Energy, Information, Postal,

Plumbing and Allied Services Union of Australia

(B2016/372)

COMMISSIONER HUNT BRISBANE, 16 MARCH 2016

Proposed protected action ballot of employees of Tacoma Plumbing & Drainage.

[1] This decision concerns an application made pursuant to s.437 of the Fair Work Act

2009 (the Act) by the Communications, Electrical, Electronic, Energy, Information, Postal,

Plumbing and Allied Services Union of Australia (the CEPU). The CEPU seeks a protected

action ballot order in relation to certain employees of Tacoma Plumbing & Drainage (the

Employer).

[2]        I directed that my Associate write to the parties requesting that the Employer advise

whether it objected to the Commission considering the application and making the protected

action ballot order in the terms of the draft order.

[3]        On Wednesday, 16 March 2016, Mr Wayne Smith of Master Plumbers Queensland,

the representative of the Employer, contacted the Commission to confirm that the Employer

did not intend to contest the application based on the statutory requirements.

[4]        In the circumstances I have decided to determine the matter on the papers as I am

satisfied it is not necessary to hold a hearing.

[5]        The CEPU has filed an affidavit of Mr Gary O'Halloran in support of the application.

Mr Gary O'Halloran is the State Secretary of the CEPU – Plumbing Division, Queensland &

Northern Territory Divisional Branch. Mr Gary O'Halloran is the Branch Official with

responsibility for representing the industrial interests of members employed by the Employer.

[6]        I am satisfied that there has been a notification time in relation to the proposed

agreement and that bargaining has commenced. Further, I am satisfied that the requirements

in ss443(1)(a) and (b) have been met and that, accordingly, an order must be made. An order

[PR578044] based on the draft provided by the CEPU will issue at the same time as this

decision.
[2016] FWC 1654

COMMISSIONER

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<Price code A, PR578040>