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Avaya Update #16

Monday, May 26

Mondays meeting resulted in a continued display of arrogance on the companys behalf.

The counterproposals submitted by Avaya on health care and benefits would result in the membership suffering a substantial increase in out-of-pocket expenses and co-payments.

The unions lead negotiators advised representatives of the company that if they didnt have a change in attitude, they would see increased mobilization activities by the membership in all levels of the corporation.

Both unions rejected proposals by the company to re-factor the Avaya Performance Award, which could have resulted in a zero payout. Union negotiators also rejected a vacation accrual program proposed by the company.

The unions passed counterproposals on LEAD 21, which addresses education, training and VDT usage. The unions also passed counters on the Avaya Savings Plan, CRC, Pension Plan, LTP, ERC, Healthcare Coordinator, ATP, and Alliance/ETOP Funding. 

The Omaha Bargaining team met with the company bargaining agents in Washington, DC. Avaya was informed that if there was no significant movement, ALL manufacturing issues would be brought to the national table. After the company withdrew some questionable proposals, it was agreed that the Local bargaining team would continue to meet.

It is extremely important to take notice of the small amount of progress being made toward obtaining an agreement. It should also be noted that we have less than five days to reach agreement.