EDIT: Emergency only orders have now ceased, normal police duties resumed.
Source
The WA Police union have announced a major escalation in their pay-dispute with the government, announcing officers have been ordered not to leave the station unless being called to an emergency.
In a statement released late this evening, the union president George Tilbury said under Phase Three of their industrial campaign officers would only leave their station or section to attend emergencies (Priority 1 and 2 incidents)
That will effectively mean that on-street patrols will halt as of tonight.
A union spokesperson also said it would mean roadside breath-testing would also cease.
“We are furious that the Government has shown absolutely no goodwill towards police officers, demonstrating a clear lack of understanding about the difficult and dangerous work they do,” Mr Tilbury said.
“Government also failed to recognise that police are unique and unlike any other public sector worker. Suggestions put forward to resolve this impasse included a number of items, such as additional allowances, improved conditions and delayed implementation. However, this has all fallen on deaf ears.”
Mr Tilbury reiterated that community safety will not to be compromised during Phase Three industrial action.
“Incidents may be upgraded if circumstances change, necessitating immediate police attendance for what would otherwise be a low priority job,” he said.
The long-running pay dispute with the government centres around a dispute over the police union demand for a 1.5% pay rise. The government has offered a straight $1000
“The Premier and his Government have shown no intestinal fortitude to resolve this impasse and we are sick of police officers being treated with contempt,” Mr Tilbury said
He did say however that WAPU would immediately rescind this action if the Premier committed to a 38-hour week for police officers.
The police minister has been contacted for comment.
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