RSMC Bargaining Update: Hourly System (continued)

Continuing from our last bulletin, we can lay out two of our issues that need to be dealt with as we develop a new hourly rate system. 

Method for Changing Time Values

When the Corporation wants to make changes to the LCRMS or the MWCSS that could impact employee workloads, the Employer must first inform the Union in writing. The Union then must approve the proposed changes before they can be applied. This process is covered by Appendix “CC” in the Urban collective agreement.

Without something like Appendix “CC” in the RSMC agreement, the Employer could change time values and workloads without Union involvement or approval.

Developing Future Time Values

Under Appendix “AA” of the Urban agreement, the parties have a joint committee to conduct and evaluate collection and delivery projects. In testing new products, “AA” projects address the needs of the Corporation, its employees, and its customers.

In other words, Appendix “AA” gives the Union a say when the Corporation wants to introduce new products.

Without something like Appendix “AA” in the RSMC collective agreement, the Employer could unilaterally decide on time values for new products.

The Hourly Rate System We Need

RSMCs have made great progress in their long struggle for equality. Developing an hourly rate system that gives RSMCs the same rights and entitlements as our Urban co-workers is an important part of this struggle. We need to maximize 8-hour days whenever possible. We need transparency in the development of work methods and standards. And we need real Union involvement in decisions that affect our work.

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In Solidarity!