November 12, 2009 at 4:00 PM
Bargaining commenced with the Union and Company on September 1st which began after a lengthy tour of Orange bases. The purpose of the tour was to speak with the membership and obtain a clear bargaining mandate so that the Committee could prioritize demands in preparation for our discussions with the Company. This proved to be a constructive approach as the members demands were made very clear.
There have been sixteen bargaining dates thus far with the last concluding on November 9th which lasted approximately eighteen hours. There are still several key items that must be agreed upon, which include: hours of work, training, vacation, staffing and wages. The Bargaining Committee is very close to agreeing to language on several of these issues.
We are aware that the current agreement expired on October 31st, however we have mutually agreed to extend the life of the current agreement until such time that a new deal can be reached.
Your Bargaining Committee would like to thank you - the membership - for your patience, support, and solidarity. Be assured that your Committee is working diligently to reach a fair and appropriate collective agreement. You have the commitment that we will continue to negotiate with your best interest and concerns in mind.
The Union and Company are scheduled to meet on December 1st and 2nd.
In Solidarity,
Your Bargaining Committee
Chuck Telky – Chairperson
Dan Lefebvre – Northern Bases
Mike Chad – Southern Bases
Ron Smith – CAW National Representative
Ashley Watkins – CAW Local 2002 Executive Assistant