May
16, 2005
NSTAR Electric & Gas is
reassuring customers it will keep its system running
smoothly and safely despite a call for members of the
Utility Workers Union of America AFL-CIO, Local 369 to
walk off the job. Union leaders rejected generous wage,
healthcare, and benefits packages proposed by the
company, instead opting to recommend that as of Monday
12:01 a.m. their 1,900 members walk away from their
assigned positions and strike. The company immediately
implemented a well-rehearsed strike contingency plan to
sustain core services for NSTAR customers.
“We are deeply disappointed that, despite NSTAR’s reputation as one of Massachusetts’s most generous employers, union leaders have rejected all company proposals, rebuffing our offer to add 132 union jobs, dedicate specific crews to maintenance work, and enhance safety and training programs,” said Timothy Manning, NSTAR Senior Vice President of Human Resources.
Union leadership also rejected NSTAR’s request to update antiquated union work rules, specifically those that prevent the company from scheduling overhead line workers for an afternoon shift, despite the fact that statistically most power outages occur during the afternoon. “Clearly this outdated union work rule hinders our ability to respond to our customers when they need us most,” said Manning. “We need flexibility to respond to the public, just as police departments, fire departments, and other utilities do.”
In addition to increasing staffing levels, the company also offered union employees a pay raise, which was rejected by union leadership. In 2004, the average NSTAR line worker earned $97,000 in addition to receiving world class healthcare benefits, access to the company pension plan, and a 401k plan with a company match.
“NSTAR values all of its employees and our generous and comprehensive offer demonstrates that,” said Manning. “Though we’re disappointed with the union leadership’s decision, we will continue to strive for resolution that will bring our employees back to work.”
NSTAR is operating its system during the strike, with well-trained managers and contractors filling in for striking union workers. The company has said it will work to maintain core services and minimize customer inconveniences during the impasse.
NSTAR transmits and delivers electricity and natural gas to 1.4 million customers in Eastern and Central Massachusetts; including over one million electric customers in 81 communities and nearly 300,000 gas customers in 51 communities.
