Ongoing efforts by representatives of the NPMHU and the U.S. Postal Service to reach a settlement on the terms of the 2011 National Agreement have been extended through Wednesday, December 7, 2011.
In the days leading up to the November 20th contract deadline, both bargaining teams engaged in exhaustive discussions on a host of important issues, and have made substantial progress toward an overall deal. At the same time, crucial differences between the parties remain, relating to both non-economic work rules and the basic economic terms of a tentative agreement.
National President John Hegarty and USPS officials therefore have agreed to stop-the-clock, allowing the bargaining representatives to recharge their batteries over the Thanksgiving holiday, to delve even deeper into the topics that have been discussed, and to then return to the bargaining table. “The negotiations process has thus far been productive, and has included discussion and analysis on a wide spectrum of ideas and possible solutions,” said President Hegarty. “The NPMHU looks forward to jump-starting this process next week, and to making a concerted effort to reach a tentative agreement for consideration and vote of the membership.”
Also next week, a pre-scheduled meeting of the Local Union Presidents will occur in Washington, DC on Thursday, December 1, 2011. During that meeting, President Hegarty and the National Negotiations Team will report on whatever progress has been made in negotiations, and will discuss the prospects for reaching a tentative agreement. As information becomes available, it also will be shared with all NPMHU representatives and with the entire membership through the publication and distribution of additional Contract Updates. Be sure to visit the NPMHU website at www.npmhu.org to find the latest information on our collective bargaining process.
During this Thanksgiving season, the National Negotiations Team is grateful for the continued support of all Mail Handlers. We wish you and your families a joyous holiday season.
