Radio Free Asia Guild Unit -- News

BARGAINING BULLETIN #1

Bargaining for an initial contract with RFA began Wednesday, October 8, with the Guild calling for pay parity with VOA.

The Guild's initial proposal also calls for reducing health insurance premiums, overtime pay for all employees, protections against unfair scheduling, increased vacation, and protection against unfair discipline.

In delivering the initial proposal, WBNG Local Representative and chief negotiator Paul Reilly expressed hope that in light of the overwhelming union election victory, RFA would work cooperatively with the Guild. Reilly also saluted the RFA activists who led the organizing drive, calling them courageous.

The RFA management was represented by Lisa Heyes, Tom Beeson and attorney Gil Abramson. Abramson pledged RFA would work toward a constructive relationship with the Guild.

Representing the Guild were Reilly, Karma Zurkhang, Hong Liu, Tanya Lau, Ko Ko Aung, Poly Sam, Ted Liu and Sonam Singeri.

The bargaining committee and the management agreed to hold the next bargaining session next Tuesday, October 14. Any union member is welcome to come and observe. Please contact any union official or bargaining committee member if interested.

Please do let us know what you think about the contract. After all, it's OUR UNION, OUR CONTRACT.