United Teamsters Fighting for Member Rights in Investigatory Procedures

During Tuesday’s negotiations, the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee continued to press the carrier to add language guaranteeing adequate union representation for members during investigatory procedures. The Teamsters demand a minimum of two union representatives present for all investigatory meetings between an employee and the company with certain limited exceptions. However, after two bargaining sessions, United has continued to counter the union’s proposal. 

“We let United know yesterday that we are not moving the process forward until we get this demand. It’s that important for our members,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “We came to Denver in good faith and spent two days going back and forth on this one policy. We will not rest until United gives our members the level playing field we deserve.” 

“It’s crucial that we have sufficient union representation whenever we have to meet with the company,” said Patrick Gelato, a technician from Teamsters Local 19 out of Houston and member of the union’s committee. “One of the reasons we joined the Teamsters in the first place is to make sure all members are treated fairly with equality and strong representation. We won’t let the company take advantage of us and deny us this important right.” 

Negotiations will continue in Denver until October 9.