New web rules for council staff

The workers who lost their jobs were aged between 21 and 44-years-old

New rules for internet access have been introduced by a council where three workers lost their jobs for spending too long on the auction site eBay.

One person was sacked and two resigned after managers at Neath Port Talbot Council found some staff were spending up to two hours a day on the website.

Staff have been told they must not use the web for personal use between 0830 and 1700 BST apart from lunchtimes.

Unison said it should reduce the prospect of more disciplinary action.

The council said the new rules were being introduced following discussions with union representatives.

It said it had stated from the outset that personal use of the internet was only allowed during an employee's own time.

There is still a considerable amount of trust required on the part of all our employees Peter Rees, councillor

Now to avoid confusion it said access to popular sites such as those for shopping, sport, holidays and leisure would only be allowed at set times.

Where appropriate, it added, senior managers were able to authorise access to such sites during work time for "legitimate business reasons."

Council cabinet member Peter Rees said: "New internet access software which we have been piloting for some months will provide safeguards for everyone who accesses the internet for personal use.

"There is still a considerable amount of trust required on the part of all our employees but the council is confident that the measures now being taken are commensurate with the risks involved."

Last month it was revealed three staff had left after spending "a significant time" browsing the web.

The council has software to prevent staff accessing some sites

The authority said two other cases were being investigated and another employee had been given a written warning.

Union officials said in all, over an 18 month period, up to six council staff had lost their jobs.

They had blamed bosses for "putting temptation in their way" - by allowing access to the internet.

The new rules have been welcomed by Unison.

Regional organiser Andrew Woodman said: "A balanced and well publicised internet use agreement is the best way to promote responsible use of the internet at work.

"The arrangements now being adopted for all internet users within the council will greatly reduce the prospect of disciplinary action being taken against our members in future and this is very much to be welcomed."