Despite efforts by AEU's bargaining team to reduce the outstanding non-economic issues to only a few key articles, little was accomplished at the table on May 15, 2013 besides executing one previously agreed to tentative agreement. AEU steadfastly maintains that workload and its far reaching impacts cannot continue to go unaddressed. Management’s deferral to Article 7.12 for individual LRR workload issues for example simply falls short of reality as an effective solution. Inadequate staffing levels directly impact service to CSEA members and cannot be ignored. The survey responses document excessive work levels and the negative effects including compelling impact on the ability to maintain health and engage in a personal life.
AEU submitted a revised proposal to clarify in lieu days as a more effective means for workload relief. In response, management proffered a late proposal radically altering the time in lieu provisions of Article 7.11.6. CSEA’s language effectively results in an employee losing the in lieu day if the employee does not schedule its use, and notify the employer of such scheduling, within five days of earning the in lieu day. Management justified this proposal on the grounds that the practice of providing in lieu time off is a “nightmare” and that it does not want to “feed and diaper” employees to be sure they take an in lieu day.
Of course, for AEU represented employees, working Saturdays and Sundays in addition to an already demanding regular work week is a “nightmare” too . . . but evidently, the “nightmare” for AEU members doesn't count in management's view. We don’t need a “bottle,” CSEA – we need to be able to balance work requirements with qualify of life.
We will be responding on this matter at the next negotiations meeting set for May 21, 2013. Please continue to send in your survey responses to any team member. Your input is crucial. AEU maintains its proposals on salary, health care and pension. If necessary, bargaining sessions are also scheduled for May 28 and 29.
In Solidarity,
Debbie Pichetto
Val Hollins
Karen Hartmann
Scott Hendries
Carol Koenig
Chris Platten
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