US Airways Oor AFA Update: December 5, 2012
NMB – When will we hear?
As we mentioned last week, following the strong 94% Strike authorization vote by US Airways Flight Attendants, AFA-CWA contacted the National Mediation Board (NMB) to notify them of our resolve to return to the bargaining table. As of this time, the NMB has not agreed to schedule additional dates. It is in the NMBs sole discretion when or even whether they will respond to our request. It is important that we continue to show our solidarity through wearing our AFA pins, displaying our Strike Vote Yes stickers and supporting each other.
US Airways Our AFA update: December 11, 2012
Our Negotiations
The merger is likely a reality in the very near future. We are watching this closely and we are ready to act. Entering a merger without improvements for US Airways Flight Attendants could negatively impact our ability to enforce our collective bargaining rights and protect our jobs and seniority. We will not be bullied, but we will certainly be smart as we continue to fight for a contract we can ratify.
The most common question we are getting on-line is “what is the next step if we don’t get dates from the NMB?” Let’s be clear; the NMB has not told us they will not give us dates and we continue to communicate our position and the reasons they should return us to table. This is an on-going process with the NMB.
Obviously we will continue to evaluate all of our options. Our union has the experience and professional assistance to be able to adapt based on new information and we decide together how we will move forward. Our goal remains to achieve improvements as soon as possible.
Common Questions coming from the Line…
Q.) Is the NMB going to give us a statement or anything based on their decision?
A.) No. They never do. But, there is no definitive decision at this time. This is a process and it is on-going. We have been clear throughout this process that it would be incredibly difficult to get dates. Know that there is activity taking place, however, and just because we cannot provide a play-by-play doesn’t mean we are not engaged in discussion with the NMB.
Q.) Will the company come back to the table without the NMB?
A.) Management has publicly stated they will not.
Q.) Will we be able to vote for the AA bridge agreement in the event of a merger?
A.) No. But the bigger question is would you want to? Refer to the pink Hot Topic “Your Future Contract?”. Their contract and the Bridge Term sheet are less than what we negotiated and in many areas less than the current East and West contracts. In addition, the Bridge Term Sheet includes a binding arbitration process that would decide your future contract at the new American. 60 days of bargaining followed by arbitration and no vote by members. We will forcefully oppose any attempt to take over your bargaining rights, but this is the plan management believes they have set for us.
We are closely monitoring events in this proposed merger. As we stated, we have the experience and resources to adapt as events change. Please remain informed and engaged. Look to your official AFA-CWA resources at
www.ourafa.org and your local officers and mobilizers for accurate information.
We are in the process of planning our next solidarity action – expect details next week. This week, double-check your uniform now and make sure management knows we are standing together with your AFA pin where they can see it. If you lost your “Strike Vote – YES” sticker for your bag, get another one from a mobilizer.
Let management know we’re not slowing down for an instant. We will hold them accountable for their responsibility to us!
http://www.ourafa.org
