Originally Posted by
Trowserchilli
Yes and no.
I understand people see it as the last resort, that's because that's what it is.
The process in reality undermines Union strength in an organization. Instead it sends a message that we need help, rather than management seeing, recognizing, then responsibly responding to an angry and unified labor group. I.e. resolving the issue at the workplace.
We're basically putting the decision on whatever it is, in the hands of a third party.
Even the Alpa letter indicates were not really sure what the company is earning. I think the place is profitable.
Problem is we only see what they want to share being a privately held company.
That could present a problem for us with the arbitrator, management paints a not so rosy financial picture to the arbitrator then it's over.
That in turn would weaken our spot with our contract negotiations.
Unfortunately arbitration is the next step in the process, it also shows they don't give two ****s about our union no matter what label it has.
I'm going to hang onto my bravado for the strike. That's the only thing I think this management team will in the end respond to.
How do you join that FB page?
But to your original post - We're never striking based upon a decision from an arbitrator in LOA67, this is completely SEPARATE from section 6 negotiations. The LOA67 and section 6 processes are happening in parallel but are only loosely connected. If we score more pay from an arbitration on LOA67, then that would effect our bargaining power in section 6 negotiations (because we would be at a higher pay rate).
There is no harm in pursuing expedited arbitration for the grievance over LOA67, in fact it could be our only ace in the hole to spurn productive section 6 negotiations (i.e. the arbitrator already gave us most of the pay, now we only have to iron out the other sections of the contract). Frankly, our pilots should be excited for the potential outcome an arbitration over LOA67 can bring. The pay sure as heck can't get worse!
You can't join FAP Facebook page unless you've been invited and approved by it's moderator, the woman in the high castle. It's a "super duper secret" group, and you can't find it in a search. But in the company's eyes, it's not secret, it's super duper public. I'd think twice about joining if you were invited.