Date: June 30, 2023
Subject: Summary of Principal Officer Meeting
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
We are reaching out to provide you with an update on the recent Principal Officer Meeting, which took place Monday at the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) headquarters in Washington, D.C. The meeting was centered around the upcoming bargaining process as well as a review of the number of grievances at system board and arbitration.
Here are the key points discussed during the meeting:
1. Preparations for Bargaining:
The leadership acknowledges the significance of thorough preparation for the upcoming negotiations with management. To ensure effective representation, a dedicated Bargaining Committee comprising experienced individuals from our hub cities has been formed. Most of the previous members will return for this round of bargaining. The commitment from the Principal Officers is to assertively advocate for our best interests during the bargaining process.
2. Reviewing Grievances:
The meeting involved an overview of the grievances filed, and an update on their current status in the docket. We recognize the importance of ensuring your grievances are heard in a timely manner, and efforts are underway to address the current backlog. Initiatives to expedite the process were shared, including the exploration of increased arbitrator availability through collaboration with the company and the National Mediation Board (NMB). Expanding the pool of arbitrators will be critical as the current panel ages, and delaying action will further diminish the available resources.
3. Transparent Communication:
Emphasizing the importance of transparency, we discussed the necessity of keeping all members well-informed and engaged throughout the bargaining process. To achieve this, regular updates will be provided through various channels such as emails, the new app, and our union website. We also explored options for facilitating member inquiries and feedback, recognizing the value of your input in shaping our priorities and strategies.
4. Learning and Training:
In our commitment to supporting our members, we have planned a range of educational initiatives. These include training videos and other means of disseminating informative materials to foster an informed membership. Equipping our members with knowledge and resources will strengthen our negotiating committee's capabilities and advance our collective objectives.
The union leadership is fully dedicated to representing your interests and striving for an industry-leading agreement during this pivotal round of bargaining. We extend our deepest appreciation for your unwavering support, active participation, and patience as we navigate these crucial discussions.
Fraternally,
Vinny Graziano
Airline Division Representative