NO RESOLUTION FOR KCP STRIKE AFTER MEDIATION

Union officials representing striking production workers at the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Kansas City Plant and contractor Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies met with a federal mediator yesterday, but no resolution was reached as the strike stretched into its 10th day, according to statements issued by the union and Honeywell. The plant contractor appears to be sticking by the final offer that International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 778 rejected Oct. 9, which includes a cumulative 13.5 percent wage increase for current workers over the life of the six-year contract and an 11.7 percent pension increase. The union has complained that the contract includes a significant cut to starting pay for new workers, lowers the quality and raises the costs of benefits, and would diminish union representation at the plant, cutting the number of paid union positions from four to one. “This offer remains strong, especially in light of current economic conditions,” Honeywell said in a statement, noting that there is discussion in Congress about extending a freeze on federal salaries. “As managers of this U.S. government facility, Honeywell is committed to being a good steward of U.S. taxpayers’ dollars and federal assets. The company is committed to helping its hourly employees get back to work.” 

In its own statement, Local 778 said that “no progress” was made during the mediation session—the second such session in the last week. A federal mediator met separately with officials from both parties Monday. “The company’s refusal to engage in negotiations is a test of our convictions and solidarity,” the union said. “We have the right to expect affordable health insurance now and in the future. The nature of our work exposes us to long term health concerns.”