BULLETIN 6
March 7, 2007
NABET-CWA and ABC, Inc. negotiators resumed talks today at 10 A.M.
The morning session was dedicated to discussing the ABC-NABET Retirement Trust Plan.
In these negotiations, the Union has made proposals to increase Company contributions, increase the pop-up accrual rate, and add a second mid-term pop-up for current plan participants. The Union proposal also calls for additional benefits for current retirees.
ABC has not yet made a contract proposal concerning the pension plan, Nonetheless, the Company's actuarial consultant, Robert Sartorius, made a presentation concerning Disney/ABC's view of the current funding status of the plan. This presentation also included the Company's view of recent changes to the federal laws that protect pension plans. Union pension trustees joined the Union Bargaining Committee at the table to dispute the accuracy of this presentation.
In the afternoon session, the parties began detailed discussions on the provisions pertaining to 'A' Contract Daily Hires. Daily Hire representatives made opening statements in support of the Union's proposals. Proposals discussed today include increasing the payment in lieu of benefits, eliminating 4 and 6 hour minimum calls, providing eligibility to certain Company benefits, and improving the compensation structure for travel days.
Talks adjourned for the evening at 5:30 P.M. and are scheduled to reconvene at 10:00 A.M. tomorrow. Thursday's session will be dedicated to discussing additional Daily Hire issues.
The Union Bargaining Committee reminds all members to ignore rumors. All official negotiation and mobilization information will be delivered on Sector website at www.abc-contract.info and on Local websites, hotlines, and e-mail lists.
NABET-CWA Network Negotiating Committee
