JUNE  LABOR VIEWS 

A service award to a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners for the month of June was presented: Alfred Boucher    40 years

Congratulations! 

Reminder:   There will be nominations and an election at this month’s Union meeting for a first shift steward in the Graving Dock area.  Anyone interested in running for this position must be a member in good standing for at least one year. 

Smoke-free:   As of the first of next month, the smoke-free policy will go into effect.  The Company says that this policy is being put into effect because of their concern for employee health and their interest in trying to cut the costs of insurance premiums.  My belief is that the Company is more interested in increasing production by eliminating smoking breaks.  If they were invested in improving employee health, there wouldn’t be a problem with people refilling prescriptions for pills to quit smoking.  I am aware of two cases where the insurance denied a refill of medication for people who had already used ninety days worth of pills to assist them in quitting.  If the Company is truly concerned about the health of employees, one would think they would go further to provide what employees need to achieve that goal rather than deny them the benefit of continuing on their prescriptions.  That is a small price to pay for the health benefit that the former smoker receives and the production benefit that the Company receives. 

Road Work:   Road work has slowed down for carpenters after the 753 boat in Norfolk was completed.  We only have a few carpenters working in Norfolk, VA, as of this date which is probably good because of the work load our department has for the next few months.  The Company has versatized other trades, took transfers from other trades, and hired forty more carpenters from the street.   Hopefully, these actions will allow us to meet our demanding schedule here and at the sub base. 

Two of our members were moved from second shift to first shift after a four year wait.  With the hiring of forty new members, Mr. Castro said that he will try to accommodate a few more shift changes.  Please be patient with the process. 

Health Fair:   The Health Fair will be held on June 19, 2007, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of the many services available.  Cholesterol screenings, blood pressure monitoring, and glucose testing are only a few of the services offered on that day.  If you haven’t seen your physician in a while, it is important that you make time to take advantage of the opportunities presented at the Health Fair. 

Safety:   Not only should safety be our number one concern at work, it should be our number one concern at play as well.  I wish everyone a safe and healthy summer season as you enjoy your vacations and leisure time activities. 

Now that most carpenters are back from road jobs, check out our website at www.local1302.com to check where you stand on the road job list.  If you have any questions, contact me.  Also on the website you can read previous Labor Views articles, check seniority lists, and items for sale.  

Our next Union meeting will be held on June 14, 2007, at 2:45pm in the Union Hall at 171 Thames Street in Groton.