Assembly Commission: What price... democracy?

The Assembly elections in May 2007, not only brought in many changes for the Assembly as an institution, and for its politicians, but also for its staff i.e. the Assembly Parliamentary Service (APS). The election heralded a new beginning for the staff as the split between 'The Executive' and 'The legislature' meant that former APS staff would no longer be civil servants.

The election ended their civil servant status, however, there was a popular option advised by the PCS Union - having the right to revert to their civil servant status and 'move over' to the staff of the Welsh Assembly Government [The Executive] during this period. That deadline arrived this month!!!

The Union were hopeful that the working lives of staff [approximately 300] would be positive, with the possibility of more flexible working patterns and conditions being negotiated once the commission had autonomy to make changes to existing staff terms.

Management have encouraged staff to remain with the Assembly Commission, but with possible limited career opportunities the decision remained at th eforeground to staff thoughts.

In reality, staff have been trickling back to the civil service [Welsh Assembly Government] since May 2007, which has given rise to many 'easy' promotions for existing staff that remained with the commission. This is why there's been a steady flow of new vacancies at the commission. Problem sorted!

Why not join? There could be an interesting opportunity for you.