ICYMI: Rail Unions Sign On to The Merger: Jobs Protected in Writing
Rail Unions Say Written Job Protections Make the Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Merger Worth Backing
Rail unions are signing on to the Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger.
The nation’s largest rail union, SMART-TD, got behind the deal more than a year ago.
Since then SMARTMD, the American Train Dispatchers Association, the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen, the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, the United Supervisors Council of America, and the National Conference of Firemen and Oilers followed. Each one did it after securing written job protections for its members.
With the Surface Transportation Board now reviewing the merger, that makes seven unions with signed agreements tied to America’s first coast-to-coast railroad.
In case you missed it…
“We are protecting jobs, protecting families, and protecting the future of the U.S. supply chain”
Jeremy R. Ferguson, President, SMART-TD: The nation’s largest rail union announced its support for the merger after the railroads agreed to protect the jobs of its train and yardmaster members for the length of their careers. Ferguson called it a proud day for the membership, and the union said it will back the agreement before the Surface Transportation Board.
“Lay the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient and more opportunity-rich future for every union Boilermaker serving the railroad industry”
Timothy Simmons, International President, International Brotherhood of Boilermakers: In a statement, the Boilermakers announced they support the merger after signing an agreement with both railroads to provide meaningful jobs for union members at each company, on top of any protections the Surface Transportation Board requires. The union said it expects the merger to expand union work.
“This merger presents an opportunity to strengthen long-term stability, expand opportunities for our members, and protect quality jobs for the future”
Michael Pistone, President, National Conference of Firemen and Oilers: Pistone called the merger a chance to build long-term stability for his members, with room to grow and better working conditions. Under the union’s agreement, members on the payroll when the deal closes keep their jobs for the rest of their careers.
“I now support their effort to merge with Norfolk Southern.”
L. Ed Dowell, President, American Train Dispatchers Association: Dowell said Union Pacific’s commitments to guarantee ATDA dispatchers work for life and to protect their union work are what earned his support.
“Our support is rooted in protecting our members and their futures.”
Peter Kennedy, Director, SMART-MD: The SMART Railroad, Mechanical and Engineering Department announced its support for the merger after securing a jobs-for-life agreement with Union Pacific that protects its members’ jobs and preserves their work. Kennedy said railroad mergers should be judged by what they mean for workers, and SMART General Chairman John McCloskey called the merger a chance to grow freight rail with more traffic, investment and jobs.
“Security for our members is a huge accomplishment.”
Don Grissom, General President, Brotherhood of Railway Carmen: Last November, Grissom said the job protection agreement lets BRC members at both railroads count on their jobs without worrying about involuntary furloughs, and he credited Union Pacific’s leadership for making the first move. The agreement covers members employed at either railroad when the merger takes effect.
