Bargaining Update: Should you start looking for extra work?

February 5th, 2010
Once again a long and productive day at bargaining. Feb 5 was the
deadline for all proposals. We presented our proposals on Salary, Benefits and Sick pay (extending the same benefits to Lecturer Is in their third and fourth year that all other University employees receive) as well as gave them two discussion pieces on modified duties for new parents and the small group of LIVs whose second major review has been unduly delayed.

Management gave us their long-awaited benefits proposal. It is what we expected: a steep rise in the costs of benefits, primarily borne by the lowest paid. They also shared some benefits information, which showed what a tiny fraction of overall health care costs are incurred by lecturers.

We had two members testify to the catastrophic effects the proposed changes would have for them and their families; with insurance premiums going to $450 a month or so for part-timers (those between 50 and 79%), many members are now looking for other jobs - they simply cannot afford to continue teaching.

Finally there was some Q & A on earlier proposals. And at the end of the day, we shared our feelings on the three proposals they have made that would seriously curb our rights as a Union.

Any LEO member can attend bargaining at any time, F 9:30-5:30, in the Education Conference Room, main floor, School of Social Work on the corner of East and South U.

Sincerely,
Kirsten Herold
LEO VP