Clearly, but the question remains; Why did that TA ever see the light of day?

For all the facts and historical perspective above, the problem is that our representatives felt that it was worthy and sent it out for ratification. If the NC truly felt is was the best last and final offer and needed the mandate of a majority rejection to advance the union position, fine. But they didn't do that, they hid the vote and used this dismal TA as the starting point. The company has no incentive to negotiate with this MEC until TA2 get shot down in flames, then we all get to mark time for a bit. My guess, 2-3 years.