The State Government today reaffirmed its commitment that SGIO staff who joined the new privatised company would do so voluntarily.
The Minister assisting the Treasurer, Geoff Gallop, said that within the next few weeks SGIO staff would know whether they had the option of taking up positions with the new organisation or accepting re-deployment within the public service.
Dr Gallop said some current SGIO jobs would have to be shed as the result of the restructured organisation evolving from the forthcoming public float but staff involved would be re-deployed.
"I stress that any staff joining the new organisation will do so voluntarily. Those who are re-deployed or who choose to stay with the public service will retain their employment entitlements."
Dr Gallop said he acknowledged that staff loyalty at the SGIO had played a major role in the success of the organisation over many years.
"But it is generally accepted that the privatisation of the SGIO is the most appropriate way for the organisation to maintain its solid trading position and enable it to achieve its full commercial potential within the marketplace.
"It is not the time for threats of industrial action; it is time for cool heads to prevail. I hope the Civil Service Association will reconsider its position.
"It is proper that the process put in place by the SGIO's privatisation committee run its course.
"The Premier gave an assurance at the time of the announcement of the public float that the Government would work to ensure that all employees affected by the change would not be disadvantaged.
"That remains the case and I would stress again that no-one currently employed by the SGIO will be forced to join the new organisation," Dr Gallop said.
