It's been some time since I've had the opportunity to sit down and update this blog. Today I've updated the links, took down some old things and just basically did some house keeping. If you see something that doesn't work or would like something added please let me know.
In the header it now says that this is a blog about my role as an Airline Division Rep. While I still see the guys from IAD I no longer represent them on a full time basis as their Chief Steward. That role has been passed to Jay Koreny. When he puts up a blog a will add a link in the useful links section.
For those that haven't seen the most recent Mechanics Dispatch the issue of whether or not there will be an appeal of the Consent Decree by the IBT or the respective Locals was discussed and it can be found here http://www.teamster.org/content/ualcalcmi-mechanics-weekly-update. The readers digest version is that we will be moving forward with negotiations and the Consent Decree will be the driver for seniority integration.
Negotiations have been moved back due to the availability of staff at the NMB. While the process is somewhat delayed the parties all continue to desire a quick resolution to the amalgamated agreement.
I've also been working on the Frontier Mechanics negotiations. That process has moved along at a good pace and we should be discussing the economic package soon.
Many of you may know that there are organizing drives currently happening at American Airlines and USAirways. I've had some involvement in each of these campaigns and truly hope they're successful. If those two groups join us we will represent over 30,000 mechanics. That brings increased bargaining power with the companies we work for and political capital on the Hill when we lobby for items that affect our craft. If you'd like to get involved please let me know and I'll forward your information to the organizing department.
I found the airline mechanics site a while ago and have added their forum to the Mechanics Dispatch useful links. They have copies of all the industry CBA's and a forum for discussion open to all mechanics.
I'll try to keep up with this blog but the next couple of months are going to be very busy with the talks for an amalgamated agreement. Thank you for your patience and please check back for updates.
That's all for now except to say that I'm wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving.
