A Seesaw of Developments
Overall Recap
We have concluded another week of contract negotiations with United Airlines. We again feel that the week was positive and productive for both sides as we engage in full discussion of issues that are important to our membership. We are not only talking about what we want changed in our contract but why these changes are significant and necessary. The company representatives are also able to respond and give us the company opinion of each proposal.
Through these exchanges we are able to find ways to resolve some of these issues that both sides may agree on. It is important to understand that our discussions have focused on, during the early stage of the negotiation process, issues that have little or no economic impact on our contract but have been proposed by members to improve their work life.
The very serious proposals of wage increases, benefit improvements, job and pension security have not been discussed in any detail yet. The week was spent continuing our discussions around the Seniority provisions of Article X but also included some proposals seeking to improve vacation flexibility under Article XIII. We are hopeful that as we continue to explain the purpose of our proposals we will reach agreement with the company on several of these quality of life issues.
UAL Corporation’s Latest Threat
The week began with United’s announcement of their intent to seek outside bids for the ground handling of the UAX operation at ORD. The loss of this work could possibly affect about 1,000 IAM Members in the station. Talks between District 141 and United regarding this development began immediately and will continue in an effort to have all the UAX work remain with IAM represented United employees. Talks are scheduled to continue next week over this issue.
Swine Flu
The serious worldwide outbreak of Swine Flu hit home this past week as one of our members in DENCG was diagnosed with the H1N1 virus. Thankfully, he has been successfully treated and released to recover at home. The District Safety team has been working with all our represented airlines to deal with this pandemic. Please refer to other areas of our website for more information and links to the Center for Disease Control for guidelines to reduce the likelihood of infection.
Good News
The week ended with the implementation of the final wage increase called for under the current Agreements. A 2.5% increase became effective on Friday, May 1, 2009. The next adjustment to wages will come after the successful completion of the contract negotiations. What’s Next The contract talks are scheduled to resume next week. — Rich Delaney, 5/2/2009