FIRST Union  delegates met with Countown management at the end of last month, to discuss important issues for staff at the Joint Consultative Forum.

Delegates said that workers were anxious about the recent change of hours process in a number of stores to nightfill, and that communication about this was the number one issue. The company said they would take this on board for any future proposals.

When it comes to liquor and tobacco sale authorisation, staff reported that there was a serious problem with the number and rostering of supervisors. Staff are forced to breach policy by operating and supervising at the same time, and that there needs to be more backup and suport at night. Delegates suggested a number of solutions, and management are considering these as part of their review of the liquor/tobacco sales process.

The next JCF will take place in September and will focuse on the operating ratio.