UPS Pilots: set date certain request for release; claim UPS making big gamble

The Independent Pilots Association has
given UPS until December 23 to finalize the contract it began negotiating with
its pilots in October 2002.
“It has become clear that UPS’ recent overture for a settlement is not
genuine, but a cynical move timed to prevent any disruption during Christmas
Peak. Christmas 2005 will be our fourth holiday season during this contract
negotiation, that’s long enough,” said Capt. Tom Nicholson, President of the
Independent Pilots Association. He went on to say, “UPS has one more shot to
deliver a contract that our pilot group can ratify when we get together with
the National Mediation Board the week of December 19 thru 23 in Wisconsin.”
Today’s action by the IPA could lead to a strike or lock-out at UPS.
“Only the National Mediation Board can determine if there can be a strike
or lock-out at UPS. It’s out of place and very arrogant for UPS to speak for
the NMB,” said Capt. Nicholson. He went on to say, “the best indicator as to
the inclination of the NMB when it comes to releasing companies and unions is
its recent actions. Within the last six-months the NMB has released the
Northwest mechanics, and more relevant to our situation, the pilots at Polar
Air Cargo. We would hope that after 38-months of talks the NMB will follow
its charter and allow UPS and the IPA to seek self-help.”
“By forcing us into this situation UPS Labor is playing a riverboat game
of Texas Hold’em. The group responsible for contract negotiations at UPS has
made an ‘all in’ bet that could devalue the UPS brand, scare off customers and
lose money for its investors,” said Capt. Nicholson.

SOURCE The Independent Pilots Association