Issue - meetings

The Committee considered a report of the Director of Corporate Resources which sought approval for the introduction of a new policy on the re-engagement of former employees.  A copy of the report marked ‘Agenda Item 6’ is filed with these minutes.

Arising from discussion the following points were raised:-

(i)    It was clarified that the policy applied to people who took voluntary redundancy or who took compulsory redundancy with a settlement agreement.  These people could return to work for the County Council within a 12 month period, but if they did so the redundancy payment they had received would be subject to clawback.

(ii)   It was noted that the Trade Unions had given their support to the policy.  However, some concern was expressed that the policy suggested there was currently an issue regarding the Council offering people redundancy and then finding that they were still needed.  It would be particularly important to have a robust approach to redeployment in the light of Brexit and shortages in the care market.

The Committee felt that further work was needed to clarify the position with regard to casual workers and requested a further report on the policy to its next meeting.  This report would also provide more context on the national provision for redundancies and the County Council’s approach to redeployment.

RESOLVED:

(a)  That the introduction of the new Policy on the Re-engagement of Former Employees be approved, subject to a further report to the Employment Committee in December clarifying the position with regard to casual workers;

(b)  That the letter from the Trade Unions confirming support for the Policy be circulated to members of the Committee.