Bulletin 5
Feb 28, 2011
Bulletin
NABET-CWA/ABC-Disney Negotiations
Los Angeles, CA
February 28, 2011
Bulletin #5
After continuing in separate caucuses through the morning, NABET-CWA and ABC, Inc. negotiators reconvened in joint session in the early afternoon.
Today’s discussions were focused on a number of proposals related to ABC News operations and local news operations nationwide, including numerous Company proposals to wipe out, through sub-contracting and other means, work currently performed by NABET-CWA-represented TV station and network ENG crews, as well as network news acquisition personnel (“B” Unit employees). Much of the conversation concerned ABC’s current Sideletter DN proposal (Digital Hand-Held Cameras) which would delete “primary workforce” protections for members employed in electronic news gathering.
Some ABC representatives went as far as to describe these proposals as promoting “growth for the Company.” Union negotiators quickly fired back with responses stating that it did not appear that NABET-CWA members were going to be included in this “growth”. At another point in the discussions, the Company attempted to justify their sub-contracting proposals by stating that “this work (NABET-CWA jurisdictional assignments) can be done better by others”, a view needless to say, not shared by the Union Bargaining Committee, and contrary to the talents and dedication of our members working at ABC.
Talks adjourned for the day at 5:50 P.M. The Union and the Company are scheduled to meet Tuesday to discuss Sideletter HH and other proposals concerning job security for staff and daily-hire members. In addition, discussions concerning sports field assignments are also scheduled.
The Union Bargaining Committee reminds all members to ignore rumors. All official negotiation and mobilization information will be delivered on the Sector website (www.nabetcwa.org), on Local websites, hotlines, and e-mail lists.
NABET-CWA Network Negotiating Committee