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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2003 Week 8 Hansard (19 August) . . Page.. 2846 ..

MS GALLAGHER (continuing):

So we've got a situation where an offer is on the table. We've given that offer in good faith; we want to get over this hurdle; we want to negotiate the rest of the agreement. But thanks to the bargaining tactics, if you can call it that, of the previous government, we're in a situation where we're at a stalemate. We have done everything-

Mr Pratt: We certainly had industrial parity then.

MS GALLAGHER: We have offered 50 per cent more than you did over a year as an initial offer, so don't sit here and lecture us about wage outcomes.

Mr Pratt: And they're going to strike now. They didn't strike when we were in government.

MS GALLAGHER: We can't take it. The reason we are this far behind with teachers salaries is you guys.

Mr Pratt: It's so wonderful they're going to strike now.

MS GALLAGHER: Because you did nothing.

Mr Stefaniak: A very successful EBA for three years.

MS GALLAGHER: Yes, so successful that most teachers are behind New South Wales; good on you, Bill; well done. Don't come and negotiate my pay rates for me; you just stay away, you and your bargaining tactics.

I think, on the whole, Steve Pratt, your speech was about 99 per cent incorrect. I think you were incorrect on almost every aspect of your speech.

Mr Pratt: You're entitled to say that, Minister.

MS GALLAGHER: I am entitled, but it's the truth as well. How about you go and read the EBA; how about you go and have a look at what you've done.

Mr Pratt: At least when we were in government there was parity between the ACT and New South Wales.

MS GALLAGHER: Parity! All right, let's talk about parity. Have you actually matched the classification structures up, Steve? Have you had a look at them?

Mr Pratt: Well, they weren't striking.

MS GALLAGHER: Because if you had a look at them, you'd realise that, on average-

MR SPEAKER: Order, Mr Pratt! People sat in silence while you spoke.

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