Local 252 Negotiating Committee Reaches Tentative Agreement Following Picket
June 22, 2009
The Local 252 Negotiating Committee has reached a tentative contract agreement with management only four days after members held an informational picket outside of Community Care Ambulance Network's Ashtabula, Ohio headquarters.
The agreement, which is endorsed by both members and management, follows months of difficult negotiations that culminated in a June 18 informational picket and a prior strike authorization vote. While the agreement must now be voted upon by Local 252 members, the negotiating committee feels it's fair to both sides of the table.
"The members of this local truly banded together throughout negotiations to ensure that a fair contract was brought to vote," said IAEP National Representative Chris Cloen. "Despite the many obstacles in their path, these men and women never backed down."
Among a number of improvements, the tentative agreement includes wage increases during each year of its duration and protects current health insurance levels. The negotiating committee also secured improved hold-over language.
"This agreement is a good step forward for the local," said Local 252 President Elaina Caruso. "While everyone was prepared for further job actions, we are happy management decided to return to the table in good faith."
The members of Local 252 stood strong despite many difficulties throughout the negotiating process. Among a number of issues, management continuously refused to consider the union's proposals on wages, health insurance benefits and paid time off.
"These members faced increasing pressure from management and the union ultimately filed numerous charges during the negotiating process," said IAEP National Director Matthew Levy. "Reaching a tentative agreement only a few days after holding a picket is a testament to the solidarity and strength of the EMS professionals of Local 252."
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