It’s Up to You (Taken from Wired to the Prez)
District 143 and local representatives from around the country met in Minneapolis this week to discuss Northwest’s bankruptcy proposal and the upcoming ratification and legal process.
One critical question asked is whether the IAM has the right to strike if our contracts are abrogated. The IAM’s position is clear: if the Company has the legal right to seek self-help by imposing terms of employment, we have the right to withhold our services.
Northwest’s proposal is what it is, and rejecting the offer will not make it better. But it is important to fully understand the facts surrounding this vote in order to make an informed decision.
Rejection of the contract will lead to certain abrogation and only two possible outcomes. If IAM member strike, the carrier will likely liquidate.
If the proposal is rejected and there is no strike by IAM members, the Company will have the freedom to impose even harsher terms. This would destabilize the workforce and deter serious interest from qualified investors, which could also lead to liquidation.
I am sure that Northwest’s terms don’t sit well with you as they don’t with me, but what’s at stake here is bigger than the proposed terms. The question before you is whether anyone at Northwest will have a job in a month’s time.
It may be possible to find a job with better wages and benefits, and if you do you should seriously consider taking it. But even if you have another job option, the person working next to you may not.
It is important to consider the effects your vote will have on yourself, your family and your coworkers. Where we go from here is in the hands of the IAM membership, as it should be. The Machinists Union will fully support whatever decision the membership makes.
So much for the term Fighting Machnists, Another fine example of the IAM leadership endorsing concessions! I bet it passes by 57% any takers?
