Unite’s regional officer Laura Bichard attended a meeting alongside prison officer union representatives with senior HR staff and Dave Le Ray, the States director of operations, justice and regulation.
‘The discussions were positive and constructive and as a result, an action plan has been developed to address a number of workplace issues identified by our members. That plan has been shared with the workforce, who have welcomed the progress made and the commitments given by the employer to address those concerns,’ she said.
‘However, prison officers have been equally clear that, while the progress made on operational issues is welcome, it does not address the workforce’s long-standing position that prison officers have not been appropriately recognised for the exceptional levels of goodwill they have provided over many years to keep the prison service operating, and will continue to seek meaningful recognition of that commitment.’
Following the discussion, the workforce collectively decided to continue its withdrawal of goodwill.
Another meeting of the parties is expected to take place early next week to discuss pay.
Prison officers began their work-to-rule protest on Monday following long-standing concerns over pay, staffing, recruitment and retention and increasing workplace pressures.
The States is also offering current and former UK prison officers short-term contracts at Les Nicolles to cover current staffing numbers while recruitment to permanent positions is completed.
The largest UK union in the sector, the Prison Officers Association, has written to its 30,000 members urging them not to participate in any recruitment exercise designed to replace workers taking lawful industrial action.
‘While we welcome the opportunity to re-engage, the continuation of negotiations alone will not alter the current position.
‘Any decision to suspend or end the withdrawal of goodwill will be made by the workforce and will depend entirely on the outcome of those discussions,’ said Ms Bichard.
‘Prison officers remain committed to maintaining the safe and secure operation of our prison while standing together in pursuit of a fair settlement.
‘We hope the employer will now seize the opportunity to engage in meaningful negotiations so that a resolution acceptable to the workforce can be reached.’