2009 UPTE Strike
To: CAMPUS MANAGERS AND SUPERVISORS
From: Jeannine Raymond
Assistant Vice Chancellor, Human Resources
Subj: November 18-19, 2009 Strike
UPTE University Professional and Technical Employees, CWA Local 9119) represents employees in the Research Support Professional Unit, which includes Staff Research Associates and Museum Scientists, as well as employees in the Technical Unit, which includes Computer Resource Specialists, Animal Technicians, Laboratory Mechancians, Writers, Editors, Laboratory Assistants, and other technical workers, on the Berkeley Campus. The labor agreements covering these employees expired June 30, 2008.
Representatives of the University and UPTE have been bargaining since March 2008 but have not yet reached agreement on new contracts. The Berkeley Local of UPTE - the union for the Research Support Profession Unit and the Technical Unit has now called for a two-day strike for November 18 and 19, 2009. It is the University's position that the UPTE strike is not protected under HEERA as the parties have not yet completed the bargaining process, much less the statutorily mandated impasse process. While UPTE has filed unfair practice charges, which the University believes are unfounded, the mere filing of a charge does not confer a legal right to strike and therefore there is no legal basis for this activity by UPTE. The University has notified UPTE of its position.
In the event of a strike, the campus may experience some inconveniences, such as reduced bus service and delayed deliveries. However, all employees are expected to report to work and meet their job obligations. Offices will be kept open, classes will be taught, and the campus will provide normal or equivalent services. Departments will be provided with specific information about steps to be taken to manage the situation.
Employees, students, and visitors will likely encounter picket lines at some entrances to the campus and buildings. The law protects the right of all individuals to cross picket lines. In all previous employee strikes on campus, picketers have been very committed to their point of view but respectful of the views of others.
We continue to be hopeful that the University and UPTE will soon reach agreement on the issues outstanding between them. We respect the right of our workers to express their opinions on bargaining issues.
Managers and supervisors with questions about the UPTE strike are encouraged to contact their Employee Relations Consultant or Labor Relations.