The negotiators can only negotiate within the confines of what the MEC allows, and the AS MEC is VERY restrictive. Grievances, contract enforcement, asks, holding firm during negotiations - it all starts and ends with the MEC. Sadly, there are too many entrenched bureaucrats who are comfortable with the status quo. The recent changes are good, and I have faith in Chewy until he proves me wrong, but having a lead negotiator who hasn’t actually flown the contract in over a decade isn’t inspiring. And I have no faith in some of the VX reps who have quickly assimilated the bad AS ways. IMO, wholesale change is needed.