Originally Posted by
TonyWilliams
First, for all the "union is the answer" folks.... if we had a "union contract", we wouldn't even be having this thread, 'cuz there wouldn't be an amended pay raise...
Will I vote for it? Yes. It's not an emotional decision for me. It is more money, and for the majority, it's thousands of dollars more. And the company didn't have to offer it...
You guys argue unions, SAPA / SKW screwed ya, etc. I'm going to bed.
Umm...just because you have a "union contract" doesn't preclude any "amended pay raise." Ever heard of LOAs? Contracts are amended all the time before its "section 6" amendable date! This is very important to understand. Just because you have a contract with an amendable date X years in the future does NOT mean you can't improve it before then. Just look at XJT's contract for example. They amended their contract TWICE in 2006 that INCREASED pay rates and improved work rules two years before its amendable date. And chances are that it may get amended again in the pilots favor.
Also, you are right. The company didn't have to offer it. But you have no recourse without a contract and the provisions of the RLA that go with it. You have no leverage, no ability to self help and therefore no means to real good faith bargaining.
Best case scenario, vote for union representation next time around.
Good night and don't let the bed bugs bite!