Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect

Good quality working relationships are pivotal in successful workplaces, writes JOHN IRVING.

Federation's recent annual conference placed a special focus on dignity and respect in the workplace. In order for all workplaces to be safe environments and for examples to be set for our students we need to ensure that all workplaces are safe from any bullying.

Bullying and harassment has no place - dignity and respect has.

A memo from the Director-General or Federation's General Secretary saying there will be no bullying from a certain date would not be a magic wand.

Federation will promote dignity and respect in the workplace to the best of its ability.

The union plans to develop resources, incorporate a component on workplace bullying in relevant courses, and establish a restricted committee to implement Federation's policy promoting dignity and respect in the workplace.

Federation supports the Dignity and Respect in the Workplace Charter developed by Unions NSW and the Premier's Department, which states in part: "Everyone in the workplace, irrespective of their position, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. No one should suffer bullying or harassment while going about their work. This can put at risk the health, safety and wellbeing of all employees." (via http://unionsafe.labor.net.au/safety_reps/index_10.html).

Federation is to approach the Department of Education and Training asking it to provide training for all principals, college managers, head teachers and managers of all worksites consistent with the Dignity and Respect in the Workplace Charter.

John Irving is the General Secretary.

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July 2007 contents