Fairness and Public Value
Partnership recognises the mutual interests of union members and employers in building strong and sustainable public services. It is based on good faith and engagement on issues and the search for solutions.
In 2007, the PSA signed a third partnership agreement with the Government and public service employers. The first two agreements laid the groundwork for better and more productive relationships. The third agreement was designed to give union members a stronger voice through effective delegate structures and workplace partnership agreements.
In 2008 the National-led Government declined to continue with a partnership agreement with the PSA. The union, however, remains committed to constructive engagement with the Government and employers at all levels.
What is Partnership for Quality?
Partnership for Quality is a model of good workplace practice that is expected to be reflected across the public sector as a whole.The PSA led the way in New Zealand with Partnership for Quality. It recognises that union members have as big an investment in the success of their organisation as do employers and government. It's now seen by the Council of Trade Unions as the way forward to building decent, productive workplaces and quality jobs.
Worksite partnership agreements are based on the union and the employer engaging on the issues that confront them – talking around the table, not across it – so members have a voice in decisions that improve the quality of their work and the services they provide.
It demands a relationship based on good faith – that is, upfront, honest and transparent.
It is not, however, a cosy relationship. Nor does it mean we can't disagree: as an independent union, we reserve the right to disagree and not to shy away from conflict. Partnership is a declaration of engagement, not a guarantee of undisturbed industrial tranquility.
A partnership agreement has been adopted in the health sector through the tripartite forum representing CTU, health unions, district health board employers and the health ministers.
Being a PSA member means being involved in
building decent workplaces, not just for now but also for the next generation of workers.