Protecting Jobs, Union Wages and Benefits
The 'above-all-else' drive to increase profits often leads to decisions involving outsourcing, subcontracting and privatization. We're faced with it ... and we have to deal with it.
Getting the Facts on Outsourcing and Privatization Cost
Heres the problem. The Union Committee at Bermuda Taxhaven Inc. is called into the production manager's office. "I just want to give you advance notice that we are going to outsource all the machining work on our Useless Gizmo line.
Management Schemes Part 2 - A Short Glossary of Terms
Every month it seems like there's a new management scheme introduced to the workforce. Like hula hoops, these fads come and go, but some have been around for awhile now. Even though many of these terms refer to manufacturing, a good number have been adopted for use in the service sector:
Job Combinations
Here are two situations that have occurred at UE workplaces.
Privatization Doesn't Pay!
Issues
- Privatization is just another way to cut jobs and pay.
- At least one major study has found privatization means poorer quality services, demoralization, increased discrimination, loss of citizen control, decreased efficiency and higher - not lower - costs.
Management Schemes Part 3 - Putting Together a Plan
Imagine this. The personnel manager calls a meeting with the union committee one day and makes the following announcement:
Saving Jobs In The Public Sector
Jose Martinez works in the accounting office of the Town of Westmoreland. One day his supervisor approached him and said, "Jose, there's a new policy the mayor has put out. Starting next week everyone has to be on the public service desk for 2 hours a day. This will rotate, so everyone has to do their bit."
Alternatives to Layoffs
Issues
- When tough times hit your workplace, there are alternatives to consider to either avoid layoffs — or soften their impact.
- Not all of these suggestions will work in every situation, but they're worth checking out.
Plant Closings (WARN and Warning Signs)
The (few) protections for workers facing plant closings
Issues
- There are not many protections for U.S. workers facing a plant closing. Stewards and union officers must be familiar with the few that are available - especially the WARN act and similar state laws.
Management Schemes Part 1 - History