Dive Summary:
- As the Utility Workers Union of America negotiates with National Grid on a contract expiring May 11, the Brotherhood of Utility Workers Union, which contains six local unions in Mass. and R.I., has voted in favor of a strike against the utility.
- Dan Hurley, president of the Brotherhood of Utility Workers Council and Local 369, which is also part of the Utility Workers Union of America, noted that “the mistakes and mismanagement at this company are out of control. The continuous failures of National Grid are a direct slap in the face to ratepayers and taxpayers throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This is clearly a company in crisis.”
- Among other issues cited by the union, National Grid received a $270,000 from the Attorney General for not paying workers on time in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, did not issue W-2 forms to workers by the required deadline this year and failed to present thousands of workers with correct paychecks for months on end.
From the article:
“... 'National Grid is currently engaged in contract negotiations with the unions mentioned. We are negotiating in good faith and are committed to an outcome that balances the needs of our customers and our employees,' said National Grid spokesman David D. Graves in a statement. 'The safety and well-being of our customers, the communities we serve and our employees are our first priorities and will continue to be so as negotiations continue.'”