Keenan and Mounsey Pay a Visit on Day 1
The Union negotiating team assembled in San Francisco for contract talks with the Company on December 2nd, 3rd and 4th. On Wednesday the 2nd, the day began with a presentation by Jim Keenan and Mark Moumsey. Keenan briefed the negotiating team on the state of the industry and United's recent performance. Keenan talked at length about Maintenance's key role in reducing costs. He stressed that maintenance costs had increased over the years not because of head count but because of internal policies relating to the management of material and vendor costs. He acknowledged and thanked the mechanics and related for their contributions and in helping to reduce maintenance costs, and noted that more cost savings will require an even greater emphasis on the management of competitive sourcing of parts and materials. While the negotiating team appreciated these comments, as history has proven at United, words only go so far and thus the Union remains committed to protecting jobs through negotiating strong SCOPE language that is part of the enforceable Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Day 2 and 3 of Negotiations
The second and third day of bargaining again focused on Article XXI - General and Misc. and Article XX - Safety and Health. The parties are very close to reaching agreement on General and Misc., while there a few outstanding issues to resolve in Safety and Health.
Accelerated Negotiations and Key Cornerstones of a Strong Contract
As was reported in the November negotiation update, the parties have agreed to proceed with an accelerated negotiating schedule that will involve weekly bargaining sessions in January. This accelerated bargaining scheduled is intended to result in a strong contract. The Union negotiating team has outlined key cornerstones of what needs to be achieved in bargaining, including: Strong SCOPE language to ensure job protection Defined Benefit Pension Plan Industry Standard Wages & Benefits Revamping of the Grievance Procedure Seniority Rights
Upcoming Negotiation Dates
December 8th, 9th, as well as December 15th, 16th, and 17th in SFO
In January 2010 bargaining will be held every week in Chicago.
You can view all negotiation updates at www.IBTUALNegotiations.com
