May 11, 2006

 

Strike Sanction Vote Passes With Huge Margin

International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers local lodges W349, W401 and W475 are in negotiations with Georgia-Pacific for a new contract to replace the current one that expires June 1, 2006.  The three locals located in Wisconsin, Mississippi and Arkansas held strike sanction votes of their membership this week.  Voting ended last night with the strike sanction approved by a whopping 95%.  This show of support for the negotiating committee sends a strong message to Georgia-Pacific – IAM members demand a fair contract!  Solidarity will prevail!

G-P Shuffles Labor Relations Department

Georgia-Pacific announced the resignation of its Vice President for Labor Relations, Jim Carmichael.  Carmichael will end his career with G-P at the end of this week.  We understand that he has taken a higher position with one of G-P’s competitors.  Taking the reigns of G-P Labor Relations is Ken Harrison.  Harrison appointed as Vice President to replace Carmichael is a long time member of the G-P labor relations team. 

Negotiation Meetings Postponed

Negotiations were scheduled to resume the week of May 22.  With the sudden changes in G-P’s Labor Relations department, those meetings are cancelled.  Future negotiation dates will be scheduled as soon as possible, probably early next week.  They will be announced when available.

Keep the solidarity going and demand a fair contract!