APWU Presents Economic Case
In Interest Arbitration Proceedings

Burrus Update #51 Sept. 28, 2001

APWU has now completed six days presenting the union's economic case in the interest arbitration proceedings. On September 25 the arbitration panel reconvened in Washington, D.C., and the union continued to press its request for a significant wage increase and resolution of outstanding contractual changes. The union advocates presented testimony, evidence and witnesses in support of its request for upgrades of APWU-represented employees, changes to the Uniform and Work clothes program, changes to Article 19 which would limit USPS authority to modify handbooks and manuals, compensation for travel and changes to Article 30.

Arbitrator Goldberg expresses a clear understanding of the union=s objectives and demonstrated clear control of the proceedings. The hearings begin at 9 AM and conclude at 6 PM with one hour for lunch and necessary breaks during the day for attorney meetings. In an important ruling made by the impartial chairman, he demonstrated his rejection of USPS ploys to deny the union a full presentation on the issues of upgrades and length of contract. He also interjected his views as issues were being presented and showed a clear grasp of the subjects under consideration.

On September 28, the Pennsylvania Postal Workers Union, under the leadership of president Leroy Moyer, conducted a telephone conference with me to discuss the progress of negotiations. Twenty-five separate locations were tied into the conference, and Pennsylvania APWU members and local leaders were provided an update on the negotiations and posed questions regarding the issues. The telephone conference was well attended and elicited excellent dialogue. I was permitted the opportunity to fully inform those in attendance of the present status of the process and the expected agenda for future hearing dates. President Moyer and his executive board demonstrated their intent to keep the membership in Pennsylvania fully informed about the status of the negotiation process, and they are to be commended. Any APWU State union wishing to hold a similar telephone conference with my office should contact my Administrative Assistant, Robin Bailey, and coordinate a mutually acceptable time and date.

The next scheduled dates of hearings are October 9 and 10, to be held in Washington, D.C. At that time, APWU will continue the presentation of its case for a significant wage increase, including retroactive pay and modification of important working conditions.

Bill Burrus
Executive Vice President

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