Reports

Report from the Partnership Committee following its meeting held on 24 January 2001

Main Discussion Points

It was suggested that the group discuss partnership in the context of  structure, roles and objectives.  A document entitled ‘UCD Partnership Forum Structure’, drawn up by the Facilitator, was used as the basis for a discussion on structure.

Structure
The group agreed that the forum should consist of two groups, Management and Non-Management members of staff. The President will continue to appoint management representatives. Trade unions may continue with the present nomination arrangements in line with UCD staff and trade union profiles. It was agreed that membership of the Committee will be confined to UCD employees only.

It was agreed that an open competition would be arranged to advertise two positions on the Committee. Interested staff members will be invited to apply directly to the Secretariat of the Committee.

Committee members will sit for a three-year session or more to help facilitate continuity, with a selection of membership rotating once a year.

The Committee recommended that partnership be considered a staff process in UCD, although it is expected that staff will have an appreciation of student concerns.

The Committee agreed that it should meet on a monthly basis.

It was agreed to appoint a chair and that the post should rotate between the Management and Non-Management members on a yearly basis.

It was agreed to establish a Secretariat, consisting of two persons, one from Management and one from the Non-Management, who should assist the Chair. The Secretariat will agree minutes and arrange the agenda prior to the monthly meeting.

The Committee will operate on a consensus basis. If agreement cannot be reached on any issue the Committee will refer the issue to the appropriate arena.

It was agreed that the involvement of retirees should be considered at a later date.

Roles & Objectives
UCD faces many challenges as a result of the 1997 Universities Act.

The Partnership Committee should strive to align objectives with the overall strategy of UCD.

The Partnership Committee should be utilised as a vehicle to facilitate change.

Tangible results are needed in the initial stages to enhance credibility.

Communication channels need to be identified and developed if the Partnership Committee is to succeed in its endeavours.

Possible issues for the Partnership Committee agenda include communications, contract staff, facilities for retirees and quality of working life initiatives.

Action Points
A Secretariat must be established as soon as possible.

Progress selection procedure for other non-management representatives.

Presentation to group on management practice in UCD and organisational flowchart.

Communications – arrange for photographing of Committee at the next meeting. Publish article with accompanying photograph in the next available issue of UCD news.

Research facilities for retirees in other organisations including Guinness and Bord ná Mona.

Retain a member of the administrative staff to take minutes for the Committee.

Provide statistics on staffing and trade union profile in UCD.

Discussion of Committee composition.