WA: Police say industrial action will not put public at risk
By Tim Clarke
PERTH, Aug 13 AAP - West Australian police said today public safety would not be jeopardisedwhen officers begin work bans next week in protest against a government pay offer.
Union leaders warned that the industrial action could escalate if the state governmentwas not willing to resume negotiations.
A 48-hour industrial campaign, beginning on Monday, will include bans on the issuingof fines for minor offences, and a ban on unpaid overtime.
Police union general manager Ken See denied the action would threaten public safety.
"It is a constitutional understanding of our members when they join the union thatthey will not prejudice public safety, so I would reject any claims that we are puttingcitizens at risk," Mr See said.
"The government should not be using the loyalty of the officers against them, and weare going to make that point."
The union has demanded a 15 per cent pay rise over three years. The state governmenthas offered an annual rise of three per cent over three years.
Mr See said police around the country - and members from across the state - had backedthe industrial action.
"Support has been unified, and it is comforting to know we are not entering into anunreasonable course of action," he said.
Union officials will meet next week to discuss the possibility of escalating the action.
"Our main focus is to get a resolution, but we could also consider a graduation ofthe campaign," Mr See said.
AAP tc/alm/ak/jlw
KEYWORD: POLICE WA
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