American Red Cross (NEPA Region) Bargaining Report: May 30, 2010

The bargaining teams met on May 27 and 28 in an effort to conclude this year's round of contract negotiations. Although significant progress was made toward achieving that goal, both teams agreed to recess sometime after 1:00 AM on May 29th.

The parties signed an agreement extending the current contract to 12:01 June 8, 2010. A bargaining meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 3rd.

While both parties informally agreed to make significant advances toward the other side's stated needs, no major changes have been made across the bargaining table. At issue for the Union is finding a way to compensate for additional expectations made by the employer on the work lives of its members. Additionally, the Union has remained firm in its opposition to accepting a contract with Red Cross that, in essence, removes the voice of its members from establishing working conditions and policies that affect their work lives.

A General Membership meeting is still scheduled for Sunday June 6, 2010 starting 6:00 PM at The American Legion Post 815. The address is 54 Chestnut St, Wilkes-Barre Township. Directions can be obtained by calling The American Legion at 570-825-6489.

This meeting is being called to conduct either a Ratification vote on a tentative contract agreement, or a Strike Authorization vote by the membership if the bargaining team is unsuccessful in reaching a tentative agreement.

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