Back To Business
Tuesday, June 9, 2020
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Last week during a (3) hour conference call with GKN leadership, the Union discussed many topics.
One was the continued efforts to keep employees safe despite political decisions to open up our state for business. We encouraged continual cleaning practices, access to sufficient safety supplies, and improved communication about COVID-19 related incidences in the shop.
We discussed current grievances and the need to select arbitrators on multiple grievances where we are unable to reach an agreement. As a result of the pandemic, all arbitrations have been postponed until it is safe for arbitrators to travel.
The discussion turned to my use of Speedfacts to communicate with our members and the content of these communications. I made it perfectly clear that the use of Speedfacts to inform union members is a negotiated benefit in the contract and it is a protected activity under labor law. The content of union communications only informs our members of issues relevant to them, it is also a reflection of the sentiment of our members.
Finally, I reminded GKN leadership of the nearing negotiations and that the union is ready and willing to negotiate a fair contract, worthy of ratification by our members.
NOTE: District Shop Steward, Safety, and Committee meetings resume in July, with appropriate safety protocols in place.
In Solidarity
Earl Schuessler, PDBR IAM District 837