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Cliff Guffey,
President |
Ask the President Archives
Below are responses by former APWU President William Burrus to questions posed online by union members. The questions cover a wide range of topics, from contract enforcement to union governance.
Questions & Answers
[ 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 ]
Rep. Issa's Editorial
(10/28/10) I really think that the way Burrus Update #16-2010
is written is shameful. The column, which refutes a guest editorial
by Rep. Darryl Issa (R-CA), is one sided. The electorate needs to
be informed about what is coming out of Congress from both sides
of the aisle — not just Republican bashing....
President Burrus’ Response
Contract Negotiations
(10/20/10)...You have said it is not in the union's best interest to negotiate
in a public forum and that you do not intend to publicize the specifics of
the union's discussions with management at this time. It is my belief that
I am entitled to know what is going on.
President Burrus’ Response
Voice of Employee Surveys
(07/22/10) I would like the National Executive Board to reconsider
its stance on participation in Voice of Employee surveys... I believe
that if APWU members honestly answered the questions, management
might discontinue the VOE. I believe that if the National Executive
Board reconsidered its position on boycotting the VOE and formulated
a plan to tell the truth about what is happening in many facilities
across the nation, the true voice of the employee would be heard.
President Burrus’ Response
USPS Labor Costs
(04/23/10) What is the true cost of labor? I often hear that
labor costs account for 80 percent of postal expenses. Years ago
you wrote an article pointing out that the costs for the bargaining
unit were only 9 cents out of a 29-cent stamp.
President Burrus’ Response
Healthcare Reform
(02/03/10) For the first time in my union heart, I feel you
have let me down... You have endorsed a [healthcare reform] program
that 65 percent of the American people did not want... In a few years
the health care system will be destroyed.
President Burrus’ Response
Future of the Postal Service
(02/03/10) At our last local membership meeting a few clerks
said saving our jobs won't happen in the halls of Congress, it will
happen over the counter with customer service and on the street with
delivery... We try our best at the local level, but customer service
seems to be going down the tube... What is APWU doing at the national
level to stop this sabotage?
President Burrus’ Response
Congratulations On Your Upcoming Retirement
(01/04/10) I am a Mail Handler in Huntsville AL.... Congratulations
on your upcoming retirement. You will be deeply missed by ALL union
brothers and sisters. Thanks for all you have done for all crafts.
I hope you have a wonderful, well-deserved retirement.
President Burrus’ Response
