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Machinists Leader Sees New Era for Boeing/IAM

Dépèche transmise le 8 décembre 2011 par Business Wire

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A key figure in the negotiations that led to the landmark agreement between the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and the Boeing Company today welcomed the vote by members to ratify the accord and predicted additional benefits beyond the terms of the contract.

“I’m confident we’ve turned an important corner in the 76-year relationship between Boeing and the IAM”

“I’m confident we’ve turned an important corner in the 76-year relationship between Boeing and the IAM,” said IAM Vice President Rich Michalski. “Both sides are committed to maintaining the high levels of communications and cooperation that produced this agreement.”

A series of meetings earlier this year between Michalski and senior Boeing executives were a prelude to the brief but intense negotiations over job security, the 737 Max assembly location, workers’ pensions and a program to allow members to share in the success of the company.

While resolution of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) case against the Boeing Company was not specifically addressed in the terms of the new contract, the IAM declared it would consider the matter settled once the contract was ratified and the new job security provisions were in place.

“I have contacted the NLRB to advise them of the ratification results and requested they initiate the appropriate steps to withdraw the complaint without delay,” said Michalski. “Despite an unprecedented level of harassment, intimidation and partisan political pressure, the NLRB and its officers measured up to the highest standard of grace under pressure. They deserve the thanks and admiration of every law-abiding American.”

The IAM represents more than 35,000 Boeing workers and is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America, with nearly 700,000 active and retired members in dozens of industries. For more information about the IAM, visit www.goiam.org.