We believe the tentative agreement we have reached is the best we will achieve. Here is a summary of what we achieved during these long and tough negotiations:
- We were able to get the wage increases front loaded (which is important because wages compound year to year)
- All job titles will be getting a minimum across the board year 1 increase of 3.75%, with no one left behind.
- We achieved the highest wage increases in Red Book history.
- We were able to fend off the company’s push for “flexible scheduling” and changes to the 8 hour work day.
- We were able to get an increase in the call pay.
- We successfully fought out the company’s TAM’s (Total Absence Management) proposal.
- Market differentials are now built into the contract.
- We obtained new and stronger internal hire transfer language.
- There will now be in-person union orientation as part of the new hire process.
- We had the best member turnout ever for our last vote.
- AND, we got more out of Essentia after their "last, best and final offer." All because of YOU and your willingness to turn up and show your solidarity at actions throughout the bargaining process!
The ratification bonus (aka retro pay, aka back pay) came off the table after our “NO” vote last month. Essentia would not budge on that issue.
If you have questions, we'll be holding a Red Book membership meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 27 at 5:30pm in the basement of the Duluth Labor Temple. The ratification vote will be all day, 6:30am to 7pm, on Thursday, Feb. 29 at the Courtyard Room of the Superior Hospital (lower level) and the Justice & Mission Rooms of SMMC. We are awaiting the official Tentative Agreement from the employer and will post it as soon as possible.
In solidarity,
the Red Book Negotiating Committee