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Previous Contract Updates
Click here for pdf version of rally information - Click Here for a Web version
It's Our Time This Time - Attend the Final Countdown Rally on Sunday, August 24th at 12:30 pm. Meet in the DoubleTree Hotel parking lot (18740 International Blvd, SeaTac). Let Boeing know we are serious about making improvements in ALL areas of the contract.
Union members and their families join Union negotiators to march from the DoubleTree Hotel to Angle Lake Park. Members will hear up-to-date information from the bargaining table and get first hand reports so you can make an informed decision on September 3rd!
Contract Update August 21st 2008
Round the clock bargaining begins
Today, we moved to the hotel for round-the-clock bargaining. When we agreed to open negotiations early, it was with the understanding we would get all the non-economic issues resolved before entering round-the-clock bargaining. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. Since the opener on May 9th, we have warned Boeing that several of the issues in their platform and proposals are strike issues. In fact, two proposals are the same issues that triggered the 2005 strike – removing Wichita from the economic package and eliminating retiree medical for future hires. Rather than learn from the 28-day strike, they kept those issues on the table and added one more – to eliminate guaranteed pensions for future hires.
Despite our warning and your loud protests, these issues are still on the table. You have told us loud and clear these are strike issues. Today, the Union demanded Boeing remove these takeaway proposals for future hires and Wichita.
Today, the Union emphasized the need to get improved job security language and passed several proposals on this issue - including proposals on LOU 37 – Materials Delivery, LOU 2 – Facilities Subcontracting, a new LOU designed to preserve tooling jobs, and modifications to 21.7 Subcontracting.
We need to focus on the many yet unresolved issues, removal of their takeaway strike issues, as well as changes to provide job security. Until we address the issue of job security and the ability to have a job in the future, any financial benefit gained is short lived.
The Union has a full economic proposal based on membership surveys; it was not presented at this time because the Company must address the four dealbreaker issues on the table. Boeing did note that they would present a complete contract proposal tomorrow – rather than listening and wanting to resolve what we have already identified as strike issues currently on the table.
In other areas, there has only been minimal progress to date contrary to what the Company is claiming in the news media. Our members are fired up and the Company has to address the issues or there won’t be any planes being built after September 3rd. It’s time for the Company to get interested in these negotiations.
Radio Ads
Just as we told you in our previous updates, the Company has begun their attack of media blitzing with radio ads. These very high priced ads are just the first step in the Company’s plan to sell you a bill of goods. Expect to see more in the future, as the Company attempts to impact your opinion. We would prefer they put those high advertising dollars into the provisions of the contract.
We ARE the Fighting Machinists. We will not sell out future generations and we CANNOT be intimidated or threatened.
Finally, plan to attend the Final Countdown Rally on Sunday, August 24th at 12:30 pm. We hear that Boeing has assigned mandatory overtime in many shops and unlimited voluntary overtime in other shops. Bring family and friends because It’s Our Time This Time and Boeing needs to get interested in bargaining a contract we deserve.
In Solidarity
Your Union Negotiating Team