| General Committee Archive page Below you will find past news and General Committee notices from the front page. |
| UPDATE FROM THE GENERAL CHAIRMAN ON ABOLISHMENTS OF CALL WINDOWS KAUKAUNA, WI., May 15, 2010--General Chairman John Reynolds has published a letter and information concerning the abolishments of call windows on assignments covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement. The following files are in pdf format. Letter to all BLE&T Members: (CLICK HERE) 75% Blanket Claim Language: (CLICK HERE) BLET Penalty Claim Process from Start to Finish: (CLICK HERE) |
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Important Revision to Family Medical Leave Act
WASHINGTON DC., August 19, from Sereena Hogan, Vice President/National Legislative Rep. BLET Auxiliary--House Resolution
2944 was introduced in the House of Representatives on July 29 to amend the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to clarify eligibility
requirements for railroad workers. The FMLA currently does not address the unique working conditions of railroad operating
employees.
Rail workers may not always meet the minimum criteria of 1,250 hours worked in the previous 12-month period prior to applying for
leave, as set forth in the current FMLA regulations. Under the proposed changes to the FMLA, the time that railroad operating crews are
required to be available for work will be included in the total hours worked per year, thus making them more likely to meet the FMLA
eligibility criteria.
WASHINGTON DC., August 19, from Sereena Hogan, Vice President/National Legislative Rep. BLET Auxiliary--House Resolution
2944 was introduced in the House of Representatives on July 29 to amend the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to clarify eligibility
requirements for railroad workers. The FMLA currently does not address the unique working conditions of railroad operating
employees.
Rail workers may not always meet the minimum criteria of 1,250 hours worked in the previous 12-month period prior to applying for
leave, as set forth in the current FMLA regulations. Under the proposed changes to the FMLA, the time that railroad operating crews are
required to be available for work will be included in the total hours worked per year, thus making them more likely to meet the FMLA
eligibility criteria.
Members vote to retain rank and file vote for National Division Officers
CLEVELAND, August 31 —By a margin of 72% to 28%, members of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET)
voted today to retain rank and file elections for National Division Officers when they rejected an initiative that would have provided for
delegate election of National Division officers.
CLEVELAND, August 31 —By a margin of 72% to 28%, members of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET)
voted today to retain rank and file elections for National Division Officers when they rejected an initiative that would have provided for
delegate election of National Division officers.
Supplemental Insurance is in full force for May
ST. CHARLES, IL., May 27, from the GCA Secretary Treasurer--Those members, both BLET and UTU who signed up for the
Wisconsin Central General Committees insurance program, your policy is now in force. Booklets to each member who signed up will
be mailed shortly. An introduction letter plus a guide on "How to file a claim" is provided below.
Letter to Participants: (CLICK HERE)
How to file a claim: (CLICK HERE)
As a reminder, when filing a claim, in this instance your employer is not CN, but the Wisconsin Central General Committee and your
human resource contact is John Reynolds.
ST. CHARLES, IL., May 27, from the GCA Secretary Treasurer--Those members, both BLET and UTU who signed up for the
Wisconsin Central General Committees insurance program, your policy is now in force. Booklets to each member who signed up will
be mailed shortly. An introduction letter plus a guide on "How to file a claim" is provided below.
Letter to Participants: (CLICK HERE)
How to file a claim: (CLICK HERE)
As a reminder, when filing a claim, in this instance your employer is not CN, but the Wisconsin Central General Committee and your
human resource contact is John Reynolds.
BLET urges FRA to improve cab safety, security
CLEVELAND, September 24, from the BLE&T Web Site —In the aftermath of the tragic murder of CSX Conductor Fred Gibbs in the cab
of his train’s lead locomotive, BLET National President Dennis Pierce has called on the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to act to
improve the safety and security of locomotive cabs to help protect operating crews. Gibbs was shot to death and his engineer was
wounded during an apparent robbery in late June, when an intruder invaded the cab of the controlling locomotive of their train, which
was being held in a siding.
CLEVELAND, September 24, from the BLE&T Web Site —In the aftermath of the tragic murder of CSX Conductor Fred Gibbs in the cab
of his train’s lead locomotive, BLET National President Dennis Pierce has called on the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to act to
improve the safety and security of locomotive cabs to help protect operating crews. Gibbs was shot to death and his engineer was
wounded during an apparent robbery in late June, when an intruder invaded the cab of the controlling locomotive of their train, which
was being held in a siding.
AGREEMENT ON PROCEDURES FOR GEB ENGINEERS AND UNION OFFICES ON THEIR FRIDAYS
KAUKAUNA, WI., July 14, from the office of the General Chairman--An agreement has been reached to modify the calling of
Guaranteed Extra Board Engineers and Engineers marked off in Union status has been reached with the carrier. (CLICK HERE) to view
this agreement.
KAUKAUNA, WI., July 14, from the office of the General Chairman--An agreement has been reached to modify the calling of
Guaranteed Extra Board Engineers and Engineers marked off in Union status has been reached with the carrier. (CLICK HERE) to view
this agreement.
FRA chief Joe Szabo addresses BLET national convention
RENO, Nevada., Oct. 7, from the BLET Web Site--Following the keynote address by Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa on
October 4, delegates attending the BLET’s Second National Convention heard from FRA Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. Szabo is a
fifth generation railroader who comes from the ranks of rail labor. He was Illinois State Legislative Director of the United
Transportation Union prior to his appointment to the FRA’s top post. Szabo said that not since the days of Abraham Lincoln has the
United States had a President who has put railroading in the forefront of his agenda like Barack Obama has done.
RENO, Nevada., Oct. 7, from the BLET Web Site--Following the keynote address by Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa on
October 4, delegates attending the BLET’s Second National Convention heard from FRA Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. Szabo is a
fifth generation railroader who comes from the ranks of rail labor. He was Illinois State Legislative Director of the United
Transportation Union prior to his appointment to the FRA’s top post. Szabo said that not since the days of Abraham Lincoln has the
United States had a President who has put railroading in the forefront of his agenda like Barack Obama has done.
FRA's Final Rule, Cellular Telephones and Personal Electronic Devices
CLEVELAND, Oct 4, 2010, from the BLE&T National Division--Brothers, Attached is the FRA’s final rule on the use of cellular phones
and other electronic devices. The rule will become effective March 27, 2011. Most of the rule requirements are similar to the
requirements of Emergency order 26 which remains in effect until it is supplanted by this rule. The rule requires that upon the effective
date all new and current members must have been instructed on the rule’s requirements. Essentially, our members are still
prohibited from using their cell phones while on a moving train or while switching or brake testing is being performed and still
requires that the devices be turned off and the ear piece removed. (CLICK HERE) to open in pdf.
CLEVELAND, Oct 4, 2010, from the BLE&T National Division--Brothers, Attached is the FRA’s final rule on the use of cellular phones
and other electronic devices. The rule will become effective March 27, 2011. Most of the rule requirements are similar to the
requirements of Emergency order 26 which remains in effect until it is supplanted by this rule. The rule requires that upon the effective
date all new and current members must have been instructed on the rule’s requirements. Essentially, our members are still
prohibited from using their cell phones while on a moving train or while switching or brake testing is being performed and still
requires that the devices be turned off and the ear piece removed. (CLICK HERE) to open in pdf.
CN asks (Canadian) court to review human rights decision
EDMONTON, AL. Oct. 29, from the Vancouver Sun--Canadian National Railway is asking the Federal Court of Canada to review a
landmark human-rights decision that recognized special rights for employees with families. The women, two of whom were single
moms, all had small children at the time. The ruling required CN to accommodate the women provided it was reasonable to do so
and didn't pose undue hardship for the railway.
EDMONTON, AL. Oct. 29, from the Vancouver Sun--Canadian National Railway is asking the Federal Court of Canada to review a
landmark human-rights decision that recognized special rights for employees with families. The women, two of whom were single
moms, all had small children at the time. The ruling required CN to accommodate the women provided it was reasonable to do so
and didn't pose undue hardship for the railway.
NOTICEOF LOCALUNION PLAN SUBMISSION FORM TO ALL MEMBERS OF TEAMSTERS LOCALUNION NO. 910 (CN/WC GCA)
ST. CHARLES, IL., SEPT. 6--The proposed Local Union Plan to nominate and elect delegates to the 2011 IBT Convention to be held in
Las Vegas, Nevada, in June 2011 was submitted to the Election Supervisor on Sept. 6, 2010. (CLICK HERE) for notice in pdf.
ST. CHARLES, IL., SEPT. 6--The proposed Local Union Plan to nominate and elect delegates to the 2011 IBT Convention to be held in
Las Vegas, Nevada, in June 2011 was submitted to the Election Supervisor on Sept. 6, 2010. (CLICK HERE) for notice in pdf.
JOINT COMMENT BY BLE&T & UTU SUBMITTED ON EMERGENCY ESCAPE BREATHING APPARATUS STANDARDS
CLEVELAND, OH. Dec. 9--from the BLE&T--As you may recall the RSIA 2008 required the railroads to provide Emergency Escape
Breathing Apparatus (EEBA) for our members when they are transporting hazardous materials. Attached are joint comments by BLET
& UTU submitted earlier today regarding EEBA. (CLICK HERE) to view this proposal in pdf.
CLEVELAND, OH. Dec. 9--from the BLE&T--As you may recall the RSIA 2008 required the railroads to provide Emergency Escape
Breathing Apparatus (EEBA) for our members when they are transporting hazardous materials. Attached are joint comments by BLET
& UTU submitted earlier today regarding EEBA. (CLICK HERE) to view this proposal in pdf.
Pierce, Walpert reelected
CLEVELAND, OH., Dec. 19-from the BLE&T--BLET National President Dennis R. Pierce and National Secretary-Treasurer William C.
Walpert have been reelected to four-year terms that begin on January 1, 2011.
CLEVELAND, OH., Dec. 19-from the BLE&T--BLET National President Dennis R. Pierce and National Secretary-Treasurer William C.
Walpert have been reelected to four-year terms that begin on January 1, 2011.
Railroad retirement tax reduced for 2011
CLEVELAND, December 21, from the BLE&T Web Site--Among the items included in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance
Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010, which was signed into law by President Obama on December 17, is a temporary
employee payroll tax cut.
CLEVELAND, December 21, from the BLE&T Web Site--Among the items included in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance
Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010, which was signed into law by President Obama on December 17, is a temporary
employee payroll tax cut.
BLET points to history in urging changes to proposed conductor certification rule
CLEVELAND, January 17, from the BLET web site--With federal regulations requiring the certification of conductors scheduled to
take effect at the beginning of next year, the BLET has filed comments with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) strongly urging
that the agency pay attention to the lessons of more than 20 years of locomotive engineer certification.
CLEVELAND, January 17, from the BLET web site--With federal regulations requiring the certification of conductors scheduled to
take effect at the beginning of next year, the BLET has filed comments with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) strongly urging
that the agency pay attention to the lessons of more than 20 years of locomotive engineer certification.
CN, CAW reach deal to avert strike
Jan. 25, By Scott Deveau, Financial Post--Canadian National Railway Co. reached a tentative agreement with the Canadian Auto
Workers Monday, averting a potential strike at the country's largest railway.CNsaid the deal includes wage and benefit increases, but
few details were given until a ratification vote was held by the union's membership over the next three weeks.
Jan. 25, By Scott Deveau, Financial Post--Canadian National Railway Co. reached a tentative agreement with the Canadian Auto
Workers Monday, averting a potential strike at the country's largest railway.CNsaid the deal includes wage and benefit increases, but
few details were given until a ratification vote was held by the union's membership over the next three weeks.
CN, CP PUSH FOR 'PIPELINE ON RAILS'
CALGARY, Feb. 7, 2011 from The Globe and Mail--Canada’s two major railroad companies have begun making regular shipments
of oil, in a move that changes how Canadian crude moves to market – and opens the door to new destinations for energy exports,
including Asia.
CALGARY, Feb. 7, 2011 from The Globe and Mail--Canada’s two major railroad companies have begun making regular shipments
of oil, in a move that changes how Canadian crude moves to market – and opens the door to new destinations for energy exports,
including Asia.
FRA published its final rule regarding restrictions on Use of Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices.
CLEVELAND, Oct 23-Steve Bruno, Director of Regulatory Affairs--Use of Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices. FRA
amended the scope and added definitions to the existing part 220 and implemented a new Subpart C ―Electronic Devices‖. The
rule becomes effective on March 26, 2011. (CLICK HERE) to download BLE&T Memorandum in pdf.
CLEVELAND, Oct 23-Steve Bruno, Director of Regulatory Affairs--Use of Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices. FRA
amended the scope and added definitions to the existing part 220 and implemented a new Subpart C ―Electronic Devices‖. The
rule becomes effective on March 26, 2011. (CLICK HERE) to download BLE&T Memorandum in pdf.
URGENT - PLEASE CALL YOUR MEMBER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES NOW!
TUCSON, AZ., March 5, from Sereena Hogan, National Vice-President/Legislative Representative BLET Auxiliary--The BLET
National Division has activated their national mobilization network to fight an effort by the Republican leadership in the House of
Representatives to undo the National Mediation Board (NMB) rule change enacted last year that made union representation
elections the same as all other elections in America… where the majority of those who vote make the decision as to whether or not
there will be union representation.
TUCSON, AZ., March 5, from Sereena Hogan, National Vice-President/Legislative Representative BLET Auxiliary--The BLET
National Division has activated their national mobilization network to fight an effort by the Republican leadership in the House of
Representatives to undo the National Mediation Board (NMB) rule change enacted last year that made union representation
elections the same as all other elections in America… where the majority of those who vote make the decision as to whether or not
there will be union representation.
BLET MOBILIZES TO PROTECT DEMOCRATIC REPRESENTATION ELECTIONS
CLEVELAND, March 4 — The National Division has activated the BLET’s national mobilization network to fight an effort by the
Republican leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives to turn the clock back on how representation elections are conducted
under the Railway Labor Act by the National Mediation Board (NMB). (CLICK HERE) for full report in pdf.
CLEVELAND, March 4 — The National Division has activated the BLET’s national mobilization network to fight an effort by the
Republican leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives to turn the clock back on how representation elections are conducted
under the Railway Labor Act by the National Mediation Board (NMB). (CLICK HERE) for full report in pdf.
Update from BLET Tax Compliance Department
CLEVELAND, Feb. 12, (from the BLET Web Site)--Internal Revenue Service regulations require the BLET National Division to inform
its members that a certain portion of your National Division dues are not tax deductible as a miscellaneous itemized deduction on
your personal tax returns.
CLEVELAND, Feb. 12, (from the BLET Web Site)--Internal Revenue Service regulations require the BLET National Division to inform
its members that a certain portion of your National Division dues are not tax deductible as a miscellaneous itemized deduction on
your personal tax returns.
USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES ON THE RAILROAD
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 16, from the office of the General Chairman-- The new FRA regulations on Electronic Devices go into effect
on March 26, 2011. The following article (CLCIK HERE for Article) contains the entire regulation as well as explanatory questions
and answers prepared that will clarify some confusing issues. Print this and keep it handy for ready reference. For FRA CFR
Regulation (CLICK HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 16, from the office of the General Chairman-- The new FRA regulations on Electronic Devices go into effect
on March 26, 2011. The following article (CLCIK HERE for Article) contains the entire regulation as well as explanatory questions
and answers prepared that will clarify some confusing issues. Print this and keep it handy for ready reference. For FRA CFR
Regulation (CLICK HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES ON THE RAILROAD
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 16, from the office of the General Chairman-- The new FRA regulations on Electronic Devices go into effect
on March 26, 2011. The following article (CLCIK HERE for Article) contains the entire regulation as well as explanatory questions
and answers prepared that will clarify some confusing issues. Print this and keep it handy for ready reference. For FRA CFR
Regulation (CLICK HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 16, from the office of the General Chairman-- The new FRA regulations on Electronic Devices go into effect
on March 26, 2011. The following article (CLCIK HERE for Article) contains the entire regulation as well as explanatory questions
and answers prepared that will clarify some confusing issues. Print this and keep it handy for ready reference. For FRA CFR
Regulation (CLICK HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES ON THE RAILROAD
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 16, from the office of the General Chairman-- The new FRA regulations on Electronic Devices go into effect
on March 26, 2011. The following article (CLCIK HERE for Article) contains the entire regulation as well as explanatory questions
and answers prepared that will clarify some confusing issues. Print this and keep it handy for ready reference. For FRA CFR
Regulation (CLICK HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 16, from the office of the General Chairman-- The new FRA regulations on Electronic Devices go into effect
on March 26, 2011. The following article (CLCIK HERE for Article) contains the entire regulation as well as explanatory questions
and answers prepared that will clarify some confusing issues. Print this and keep it handy for ready reference. For FRA CFR
Regulation (CLICK HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
Judge issues temporary order blocking collective bargaining law
MADISON, WI., March 19, from the Madison.com web site--A judge temporarily blocked the law from taking effect, raising the
possibility that the Legislature may have to vote again to pass the bill that attracted protests as large as 85,000 people, motivated
Senate Democrats to escape to Illinois for three weeks and made Wisconsin the focus of the national fight over union rights.
MADISON, WI., March 19, from the Madison.com web site--A judge temporarily blocked the law from taking effect, raising the
possibility that the Legislature may have to vote again to pass the bill that attracted protests as large as 85,000 people, motivated
Senate Democrats to escape to Illinois for three weeks and made Wisconsin the focus of the national fight over union rights.
Mongeau's pay surged 45 per cent in first year as CN's CEO
MONTREAL, PQ., March 25, from Ross Marowits, The Canadian Press--CN Rail chief executive Claude Mongeau's total
remuneration surged nearly 45 per cent to $7.7 million in 2010, his first year heading Canada's largest railway. Mongeau received
$2.77 million in share-based awards, $1.67 million in option-based awards and a $2 million bonus. Chief operating officer Keith
Creel's total compensation increased 21 per cent to $3.69 million. Luc Jobin, the chief financial officer, earned $2.73 million, up 54
per cent from $1.77 million in 2009. Chief marketing officer Jean-Jacques Ruest, who assumed the role on Jan. 1, 2010, saw his
compensation increase 45 per cent to $2.48 million. Compensation for chief legal officer Sean Finn decreased nearly 11 per cent
to $2.38 million.
MONTREAL, PQ., March 25, from Ross Marowits, The Canadian Press--CN Rail chief executive Claude Mongeau's total
remuneration surged nearly 45 per cent to $7.7 million in 2010, his first year heading Canada's largest railway. Mongeau received
$2.77 million in share-based awards, $1.67 million in option-based awards and a $2 million bonus. Chief operating officer Keith
Creel's total compensation increased 21 per cent to $3.69 million. Luc Jobin, the chief financial officer, earned $2.73 million, up 54
per cent from $1.77 million in 2009. Chief marketing officer Jean-Jacques Ruest, who assumed the role on Jan. 1, 2010, saw his
compensation increase 45 per cent to $2.48 million. Compensation for chief legal officer Sean Finn decreased nearly 11 per cent
to $2.38 million.
Elections for the Wisconsin State Legislative Board
MADISON, April 5--Elections for the Wisconsin State Legislative Board have been held with the results as follows:
Chairman-Anthony Dimond (acclamation), 1st Vice-Chairman-Paul Aird (acclamation), 2nd Vice-Chairman-Adam Makurat (7-5
over Justin Johnson), Secretary Treasurer-Paul Dinauer(acclamation), Alt-Secretary Treasurer-Richard Hemmingson,
Chaplain-Mike Corrigan.
MADISON, April 5--Elections for the Wisconsin State Legislative Board have been held with the results as follows:
Chairman-Anthony Dimond (acclamation), 1st Vice-Chairman-Paul Aird (acclamation), 2nd Vice-Chairman-Adam Makurat (7-5
over Justin Johnson), Secretary Treasurer-Paul Dinauer(acclamation), Alt-Secretary Treasurer-Richard Hemmingson,
Chaplain-Mike Corrigan.
Fallout between Gardner (Wisconsin Southern) and former female 'friend' led to campaign finance investigation
MADISON, April 14, from the Capitol Times--If not for a falling out between Wisconsin & Southern Railroad president William
Gardner and a former woman "friend," Gardner's violation of campaign finance laws might never have come to light. Gardner, a
major Scott Walker donor who, according to court documents, pledged to raise $30,000 for the Walker campaign by the end of
2009, was charged in Washington County Monday with two felonies for making illegal campaign contributions to Walker as he
mounted his successful campaign for governor.
MADISON, April 14, from the Capitol Times--If not for a falling out between Wisconsin & Southern Railroad president William
Gardner and a former woman "friend," Gardner's violation of campaign finance laws might never have come to light. Gardner, a
major Scott Walker donor who, according to court documents, pledged to raise $30,000 for the Walker campaign by the end of
2009, was charged in Washington County Monday with two felonies for making illegal campaign contributions to Walker as he
mounted his successful campaign for governor.
Bill Gates largest shareholder in Canadian National
TORONTO, April 26, from the Globe and Mail--Bill Gates owns a $3.2-billion train set, making him the largest shareholder in
Canadian National Railway Co. The Microsoft Corp. founder now controls more than 46 million CN shares, or 10.04 per cent of the
Montreal-based railway. CN disclosed his holding in its management information circular for its annual meeting Wednesday in
Toronto.
TORONTO, April 26, from the Globe and Mail--Bill Gates owns a $3.2-billion train set, making him the largest shareholder in
Canadian National Railway Co. The Microsoft Corp. founder now controls more than 46 million CN shares, or 10.04 per cent of the
Montreal-based railway. CN disclosed his holding in its management information circular for its annual meeting Wednesday in
Toronto.
Grievance Claims Submitted in Cats
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 7, from the office of the General Chairman--Attached with this notice is a letter to the membership
explaining when they submit a grievance claim in CATS they need to include the Article number of the CBA with the violation.
(CLICK HERE) to download letter to all CN/WC BLET Members. John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 7, from the office of the General Chairman--Attached with this notice is a letter to the membership
explaining when they submit a grievance claim in CATS they need to include the Article number of the CBA with the violation.
(CLICK HERE) to download letter to all CN/WC BLET Members. John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
Out-of-Cycle Engineers
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 7, from the office of the General Chairman--As we all know we have been having a problem with the
Carrier concerning Out-of-Cycle Engineers. We have been meeting with the Carrier to try and resolve the problem. We are making
progress but still have a ways to go. Attached with this email is a letter for the membership explaining where we are at with the
Carrier regarding this issue. (CLICK HERE) to download letter to all CN/WC BLET Members. John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
KAUKAUNA, WI., March 7, from the office of the General Chairman--As we all know we have been having a problem with the
Carrier concerning Out-of-Cycle Engineers. We have been meeting with the Carrier to try and resolve the problem. We are making
progress but still have a ways to go. Attached with this email is a letter for the membership explaining where we are at with the
Carrier regarding this issue. (CLICK HERE) to download letter to all CN/WC BLET Members. John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
Al Qaeda was plotting rail attack for tenth anniversary of 9/11
WASHINGTON, May 7, (Reuters) -Al Qaeda considered attacking the U.S. rail sector on the 10th anniversary of the September 11
attacks,U.S. government officials said on Thursday in describing intelligence from Osama bin Laden's hide-out in Pakistan.
WASHINGTON, May 7, (Reuters) -Al Qaeda considered attacking the U.S. rail sector on the 10th anniversary of the September 11
attacks,U.S. government officials said on Thursday in describing intelligence from Osama bin Laden's hide-out in Pakistan.
Massive taconite plant proposed near Canadian National line
ASHLAND, Wis., April 26, from the News Wire Trains Mag.--A major mining company has proposed an 8-million-ton-per-year
mine and processing plant for iron ore near Canadian National’s Ashland Subdivision, the Duluth (Minn.) News-Tribune has
reported. If opened, Cline Group’s Gogebic Taconite plant would be the first ore operation on the Gogebic Iron Range since the
1960s.
At full planned production, the plant would produce enough ore to fill approximately two 12,000-ton unit trains of ore per day. Like
ore from other plants near the Great Lakes, it would ship by rail to an ore dock, then be transferred to lakeboats. Cline is also
looking at production of iron nuggets, a more refined, higher-grade ore that can be used in electric arc furnaces.
ASHLAND, Wis., April 26, from the News Wire Trains Mag.--A major mining company has proposed an 8-million-ton-per-year
mine and processing plant for iron ore near Canadian National’s Ashland Subdivision, the Duluth (Minn.) News-Tribune has
reported. If opened, Cline Group’s Gogebic Taconite plant would be the first ore operation on the Gogebic Iron Range since the
1960s.
At full planned production, the plant would produce enough ore to fill approximately two 12,000-ton unit trains of ore per day. Like
ore from other plants near the Great Lakes, it would ship by rail to an ore dock, then be transferred to lakeboats. Cline is also
looking at production of iron nuggets, a more refined, higher-grade ore that can be used in electric arc furnaces.
CN FILES WITH THE SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BOARD TO UNIFY WCL, DMIR AND DWP
WASHINGTON, D.C.,April 14--On April 7, 2011, CN has filed a petition to unify the WCL, DMIR and the DWP. Please (CLICK HERE)
for the petition.
WASHINGTON, D.C.,April 14--On April 7, 2011, CN has filed a petition to unify the WCL, DMIR and the DWP. Please (CLICK HERE)
for the petition.
GENERAL COMMITTEE CONCLUDES ITS 2011 MEETINGS
GREEN BAY, WI., May 14, (updated May 22)--The CN/Wisconsin Central General Committee of Adjustment has concluded its 2011
meetings in Green Bay. Elections were held for all GCA officers and the results are: General Chairman, John W. Reynolds (by
acclamation), 1st Vice-Chairman, Eric Hau (by acclamation), 2nd Vice-Chairman, Scott Reinke, (by acclamation), 3rd
Vice-Chairman, Jason Alexander (by ballot), General Secretary Treasurer, Eugene (Shy) Ziegler, (by ballot), Alternate Gen.
Sec/Treasurer, Tim Foster(by ballot). The meeting was well attended by various division members, National Division officers
including President Dennis Pierce, First Vice-President "Lee" Pruitt, Vice-President Marcus Ruef and General Secretary Treasurer
Bill Walpert. (CLICK HERE) to view photo album.
GREEN BAY, WI., May 14, (updated May 22)--The CN/Wisconsin Central General Committee of Adjustment has concluded its 2011
meetings in Green Bay. Elections were held for all GCA officers and the results are: General Chairman, John W. Reynolds (by
acclamation), 1st Vice-Chairman, Eric Hau (by acclamation), 2nd Vice-Chairman, Scott Reinke, (by acclamation), 3rd
Vice-Chairman, Jason Alexander (by ballot), General Secretary Treasurer, Eugene (Shy) Ziegler, (by ballot), Alternate Gen.
Sec/Treasurer, Tim Foster(by ballot). The meeting was well attended by various division members, National Division officers
including President Dennis Pierce, First Vice-President "Lee" Pruitt, Vice-President Marcus Ruef and General Secretary Treasurer
Bill Walpert. (CLICK HERE) to view photo album.
Judge voids Wisconsin collective bargaining law
MADISON, Wis., May 27, By Scott Bauer and Todd Richmond, AP–The fight over stripping collective bargaining rights from
Wisconsin's public workers will move into the state Supreme Court, and possibly back into the Legislature, after a judge ruled
Thursday to strike down the law that passed despite massive protests that paralyzed the Capitol.
MADISON, Wis., May 27, By Scott Bauer and Todd Richmond, AP–The fight over stripping collective bargaining rights from
Wisconsin's public workers will move into the state Supreme Court, and possibly back into the Legislature, after a judge ruled
Thursday to strike down the law that passed despite massive protests that paralyzed the Capitol.
NOTICE TO ALL BLET MEMBERS CN/WISCONSIN CENTRAL
FOND DU LAC, WI., June 5, from the office of the General Secretary Treasurer--The CN/Wisconsin Central General Committee
of Adjustment held it’s quadrennial meeting in Green Bay this past May 10-12, 2011. With the start of contract talks (Section 6
notice) and meetings regarding the carriers filing with the Surface Transportation Board (Section 4 notice) over the combination of
the WCL/DMIR/DWP properties, it was decided that funds were currently insufficient and needed to be raised to keep the
Committee solvent. By vote of the Committee in session, a $200 special assessment will be assessed to all members. The
special assessment will be taken in four $50 pay periods. For the full notice please (CLICK HERE).
FOND DU LAC, WI., June 5, from the office of the General Secretary Treasurer--The CN/Wisconsin Central General Committee
of Adjustment held it’s quadrennial meeting in Green Bay this past May 10-12, 2011. With the start of contract talks (Section 6
notice) and meetings regarding the carriers filing with the Surface Transportation Board (Section 4 notice) over the combination of
the WCL/DMIR/DWP properties, it was decided that funds were currently insufficient and needed to be raised to keep the
Committee solvent. By vote of the Committee in session, a $200 special assessment will be assessed to all members. The
special assessment will be taken in four $50 pay periods. For the full notice please (CLICK HERE).
U.S. SUPREME COURT DENIES CSX ATTEMPT TO CHANGE FELA
WASHINGTON, DC., June 23, from the Hoey & Farina's e-mail Newsletter for Railroaders--On June 23, 2011, the Supreme
Court of the United States issued its decision in the case of CSX Transportation, Inc. v. Robert McBride. The decision reaffirms the
established causation jury instruction under the Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA). For over 50 years, virtually every court in
the United States followed the language of the law contained in the FELA as written by the U.S. Congress when instructing juries
on the standard of causation that applied to. The CSX railroad argued that this was an incorrect standard of causation ('proof') -
and appealed. CSX lost its appeal, then asked the Supreme Court of the United States to review the decision. (CLICK HERE) for
the full report.
WASHINGTON, DC., June 23, from the Hoey & Farina's e-mail Newsletter for Railroaders--On June 23, 2011, the Supreme
Court of the United States issued its decision in the case of CSX Transportation, Inc. v. Robert McBride. The decision reaffirms the
established causation jury instruction under the Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA). For over 50 years, virtually every court in
the United States followed the language of the law contained in the FELA as written by the U.S. Congress when instructing juries
on the standard of causation that applied to. The CSX railroad argued that this was an incorrect standard of causation ('proof') -
and appealed. CSX lost its appeal, then asked the Supreme Court of the United States to review the decision. (CLICK HERE) for
the full report.
UPDATE ON THE SECTION 4 NEGOTIATIONS
KAUKAUNA, WI., July 3, from the General Chairman--This letter is to up-date you on the current Section 4 meetings we are
involved in with Carrier. As you all know by now the Carrier filed paperwork with the U.S. Surface Transportation Board to merge the
Wisconsin Central, the Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range Railway and the Duluth, Winnipeg and Pacific Railway as one operating
railroad. The merger was approved by the U.S. Surface Transportation Board just last month.
What this means is the Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range Railway and the Duluth, Winnipeg and Pacific Railway will officially be
absorbed by the Wisconsin Central Railway. The DM&IR and DWP will cease to exist as separate corporations, and all operations
would be as the Wisconsin Central.
The three railways are now negotiating with the Carrier in hopes of moving all employees under a single contract. CN hopes to have
the deal done by the end of the year. We have had one round of meetings, which were held in Superior, WI on June 21st & June
22nd. The next scheduled to be held in Minneapolis, MN on July 13th & 14th.
I will keep you up-dated on the Section 4 meetings as they continue. Fraternally,John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
KAUKAUNA, WI., July 3, from the General Chairman--This letter is to up-date you on the current Section 4 meetings we are
involved in with Carrier. As you all know by now the Carrier filed paperwork with the U.S. Surface Transportation Board to merge the
Wisconsin Central, the Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range Railway and the Duluth, Winnipeg and Pacific Railway as one operating
railroad. The merger was approved by the U.S. Surface Transportation Board just last month.
What this means is the Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range Railway and the Duluth, Winnipeg and Pacific Railway will officially be
absorbed by the Wisconsin Central Railway. The DM&IR and DWP will cease to exist as separate corporations, and all operations
would be as the Wisconsin Central.
The three railways are now negotiating with the Carrier in hopes of moving all employees under a single contract. CN hopes to have
the deal done by the end of the year. We have had one round of meetings, which were held in Superior, WI on June 21st & June
22nd. The next scheduled to be held in Minneapolis, MN on July 13th & 14th.
I will keep you up-dated on the Section 4 meetings as they continue. Fraternally,John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
Chicago group planning expansion that could send 1-million containers to and from Prince Rupert
July 15, from the Running Trades.Com--One of the main selling-points for the Prince Rupert port is the railway connection running
between the terminal down to Chicago and all the different markets that can be found in the mid-west United States. Plans are now
underway in the Chicago area to expand a facility for loading and unloading trains to take advantage of the railway connection to
Prince Rupert; a project that could ship 1-million containers to and from the Prince Rupert port.
July 15, from the Running Trades.Com--One of the main selling-points for the Prince Rupert port is the railway connection running
between the terminal down to Chicago and all the different markets that can be found in the mid-west United States. Plans are now
underway in the Chicago area to expand a facility for loading and unloading trains to take advantage of the railway connection to
Prince Rupert; a project that could ship 1-million containers to and from the Prince Rupert port.
Here is an update on our recent Section 4 meeting held in Minneapolis, Minnesota on July 13 & 14.
KAUKAUNA, WI., July 19, from the General Chairman--This letter is to follow-up on our recent New York Dock Section 4 meetings
with the Carrier that were held on July 13th & 14th in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In attendance at this meeting were General Chairmen
Keith Stauber and Ricky Clark representing the DM&IR GCA’s, UTU-E General Chairman John Wentzlaff and First Vice Chairman
Steve Moerke representing the DWP UTU-E GCA, BLET – National Vice Presidents Marcus Ruef and Michael Twombly representing
the BLET National Division, First Vice Chairman Eric Hau, Second Vice Chairman Scott Reinke and myself representing the WC
GCA.
We exchanged proposals with the Carrier hoping to achieve a voluntary agreement to both satisfy the Carrier’s New York Dock
Section 4 Notice and also enhance the BLET/WCL Agreement. As stated in earlier messages to you, if we cannot reach a voluntary
agreement regarding the Section 4 Notice, the Carrier intends to invoke Arbitration pursuant to New York Dock. If this happens, an
Arbitrator will impose an Implementing Agreement upon us.
The Carrier intends to meet with the three GCA’s on August 24th & 25th in Green Bay, Wisconsin in hopes of moving all employees
under a single contract. The Carrier has also indicated, and you may hear through other channels, that they intend to file for
arbitration shortly so that the arbitration process will be in place should the Parties fail to reach a voluntary settlement. This should
not be interpreted as a sign that a voluntary settlement cannot be reached short of arbitration. I will keep you up-dated on the
Section 4 meetings as they continue. Fraternally, John W. Reynolds, General Chairman
KAUKAUNA, WI., July 19, from the General Chairman--This letter is to follow-up on our recent New York Dock Section 4 meetings
with the Carrier that were held on July 13th & 14th in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In attendance at this meeting were General Chairmen
Keith Stauber and Ricky Clark representing the DM&IR GCA’s, UTU-E General Chairman John Wentzlaff and First Vice Chairman
Steve Moerke representing the DWP UTU-E GCA, BLET – National Vice Presidents Marcus Ruef and Michael Twombly representing
the BLET National Division, First Vice Chairman Eric Hau, Second Vice Chairman Scott Reinke and myself representing the WC
GCA.
We exchanged proposals with the Carrier hoping to achieve a voluntary agreement to both satisfy the Carrier’s New York Dock
Section 4 Notice and also enhance the BLET/WCL Agreement. As stated in earlier messages to you, if we cannot reach a voluntary
agreement regarding the Section 4 Notice, the Carrier intends to invoke Arbitration pursuant to New York Dock. If this happens, an
Arbitrator will impose an Implementing Agreement upon us.
The Carrier intends to meet with the three GCA’s on August 24th & 25th in Green Bay, Wisconsin in hopes of moving all employees
under a single contract. The Carrier has also indicated, and you may hear through other channels, that they intend to file for
arbitration shortly so that the arbitration process will be in place should the Parties fail to reach a voluntary settlement. This should
not be interpreted as a sign that a voluntary settlement cannot be reached short of arbitration. I will keep you up-dated on the
Section 4 meetings as they continue. Fraternally, John W. Reynolds, General Chairman
CONDUCTOR WINS "WHISTLEBLOWER" CASE AGAINST WISCONSIN CENTRAL
CHICAGO, July 21, from the Hoey & Farina's e-mail Newsletter for Railroaders--The U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational
Safety & Health Administration, issued an order on July 15, 2011, in a “Whistleblower” complaint filed by a Wisconsin Central (CN)
Railroad Conductor pursuant to Section 49 U.S.C. 20109 of the Federal Rail Safety Act.
The Conductor reported an on the job injury, as required by railroad rules, on January 30, 2010 which under the statute is a protected
activity. The following day the railroad issued a notice ordering the Conductor to attend a Formal Investigation to ascertain his
responsibility for sustaining a personal injury and to ascertain if he violated any railroad rules. For the complete story, please (CLICK
HERE).
CHICAGO, July 21, from the Hoey & Farina's e-mail Newsletter for Railroaders--The U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational
Safety & Health Administration, issued an order on July 15, 2011, in a “Whistleblower” complaint filed by a Wisconsin Central (CN)
Railroad Conductor pursuant to Section 49 U.S.C. 20109 of the Federal Rail Safety Act.
The Conductor reported an on the job injury, as required by railroad rules, on January 30, 2010 which under the statute is a protected
activity. The following day the railroad issued a notice ordering the Conductor to attend a Formal Investigation to ascertain his
responsibility for sustaining a personal injury and to ascertain if he violated any railroad rules. For the complete story, please (CLICK
HERE).
Here are the finalized LMRC notes from our meeting held in April
KAUKAUNA, WI., July 24, from the office of the General Chairman--The final notes from the Labor-Management Resolution
Committee notes have been completed and are available by (CLICKING HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
KAUKAUNA, WI., July 24, from the office of the General Chairman--The final notes from the Labor-Management Resolution
Committee notes have been completed and are available by (CLICKING HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
CN Spends $165 Million to Expand Yard Near Chicago
GARY, IN., August 3, from the Journal of Commerce--Canadian National Railway will spend $165 million to expand a freight yard in
Gary, Ind., that it uses to build general freight trains, and to relocate a locomotive repair shop to there from Chicago. The work at CN’
s Kirk Yard, southeast of Chicago in Northwest Indiana, includes adding more freight car classification tracks and arrival-and-
departure tracks to handle longer trains.
GARY, IN., August 3, from the Journal of Commerce--Canadian National Railway will spend $165 million to expand a freight yard in
Gary, Ind., that it uses to build general freight trains, and to relocate a locomotive repair shop to there from Chicago. The work at CN’
s Kirk Yard, southeast of Chicago in Northwest Indiana, includes adding more freight car classification tracks and arrival-and-
departure tracks to handle longer trains.
To All Concerned:
STEVENS POINT, August 12--I was following up with an incident that occurred August 11, 2011 on the Waukesha Sub near Silver
Lake involving a Stevens Point crew, and had a discussion with the CN Special Agent from Fond du lac regarding their investigation.
He had indicated to me that they have been having issues in the Racine and Kenosha County area with various problems and that
the CN Police as well as Law Enforcement agencies in those areas are stepping up patrols and enforcement action. He requested
that T&E employees be extra vigilant in these areas and that any suspicious activity be reported to the RTC immediately with as much
detail as possible about persons and vehicles or other abnormal events in those areas. If you are not able to get a license plate
number he asked that as much detail about vehicles or persons is reported. It may also be advisable to close locomotive cab
windows in the area of Silver Lake, particularly in the area of County AH located at MP 60.04. While I realize in the heat this could be
inconvenient but it may also keep a stray projectile out of the cab and keep someone from being seriously hurt. If you have any
questions feel free to contact me, or one of your Union Representatives. Eric Stroik, Alt. Legislative Representative Division 174
STEVENS POINT, August 12--I was following up with an incident that occurred August 11, 2011 on the Waukesha Sub near Silver
Lake involving a Stevens Point crew, and had a discussion with the CN Special Agent from Fond du lac regarding their investigation.
He had indicated to me that they have been having issues in the Racine and Kenosha County area with various problems and that
the CN Police as well as Law Enforcement agencies in those areas are stepping up patrols and enforcement action. He requested
that T&E employees be extra vigilant in these areas and that any suspicious activity be reported to the RTC immediately with as much
detail as possible about persons and vehicles or other abnormal events in those areas. If you are not able to get a license plate
number he asked that as much detail about vehicles or persons is reported. It may also be advisable to close locomotive cab
windows in the area of Silver Lake, particularly in the area of County AH located at MP 60.04. While I realize in the heat this could be
inconvenient but it may also keep a stray projectile out of the cab and keep someone from being seriously hurt. If you have any
questions feel free to contact me, or one of your Union Representatives. Eric Stroik, Alt. Legislative Representative Division 174
A Message From Paul Aird, 1st Vice Chairman/Director of Political Communications
FOND-DU-LAC, WI., Aug. 24--What really is the result of what has happened here in Wisconsin? (CLICK HERE) for full report.
FOND-DU-LAC, WI., Aug. 24--What really is the result of what has happened here in Wisconsin? (CLICK HERE) for full report.
Here is an update on our recent Section 4 meeting held in Green Bay, August 24 & 25.
KAUKAUNA, WI., August 29, from the General Chairman--This letter is to follow-up on our recent New York Dock Sec.4 meetings
with the Carrier that were held on August 24th & 25th in Green Bay, WI. In attendance at this meeting were General Chairmen Keith
Stauber and Ricky Clark representing the DM&IR GCA’s, UTU-E General Chairman John Wentzlaff and First Vice Chairman Steve
Moerke representing the DWP UTU-E GCA. BLET – National Vice Presidents Marcus Ruef representing the BLET National Division.
First Vice Chairman Eric Hau, Second Vice Chairman Scott Reinke and myself representing the WC GCA. We offered a proposal to
the Carrier hoping to achieve a voluntary agreement to both satisfy the Carrier’s New York Dock Section 4 Notice. As stated in earlier
messages to you, if we cannot reach a voluntary agreement regarding the Section 4 Notice, the Carrier intends to invoke Arbitration
pursuant to New York Dock. If this happens, an Arbitrator will impose an Implementing Agreement upon us.
The Carrier intends to meet with the three GCA’s on September 7th & 8th in Superior, Wisconsin in hopes of moving all employees
under a single contract. The Carrier has also indicated, and you may hear through other channels, that they intend to file for
arbitration shortly so that the arbitration process will be in place should the Parties fail to reach a voluntary settlement. This should
not be interpreted as a sign that a voluntary settlement cannot be reached short of arbitration.
I will keep you up-dated on the Section 4 meetings as they continue. Fraternally, John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
KAUKAUNA, WI., August 29, from the General Chairman--This letter is to follow-up on our recent New York Dock Sec.4 meetings
with the Carrier that were held on August 24th & 25th in Green Bay, WI. In attendance at this meeting were General Chairmen Keith
Stauber and Ricky Clark representing the DM&IR GCA’s, UTU-E General Chairman John Wentzlaff and First Vice Chairman Steve
Moerke representing the DWP UTU-E GCA. BLET – National Vice Presidents Marcus Ruef representing the BLET National Division.
First Vice Chairman Eric Hau, Second Vice Chairman Scott Reinke and myself representing the WC GCA. We offered a proposal to
the Carrier hoping to achieve a voluntary agreement to both satisfy the Carrier’s New York Dock Section 4 Notice. As stated in earlier
messages to you, if we cannot reach a voluntary agreement regarding the Section 4 Notice, the Carrier intends to invoke Arbitration
pursuant to New York Dock. If this happens, an Arbitrator will impose an Implementing Agreement upon us.
The Carrier intends to meet with the three GCA’s on September 7th & 8th in Superior, Wisconsin in hopes of moving all employees
under a single contract. The Carrier has also indicated, and you may hear through other channels, that they intend to file for
arbitration shortly so that the arbitration process will be in place should the Parties fail to reach a voluntary settlement. This should
not be interpreted as a sign that a voluntary settlement cannot be reached short of arbitration.
I will keep you up-dated on the Section 4 meetings as they continue. Fraternally, John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
BLET MOBILIZATION, YOUR INVOLVEMENT, YOUR FUTURE
CLEVELAND, Sept. 8--A power point presentation, please (CLICK HERE).
CLEVELAND, Sept. 8--A power point presentation, please (CLICK HERE).
NMB proffers arbitration in national contract dispute
CLEVELAND, Sept. 8, from the BLE&T Web Site--On Friday September 2, 2011, the National Mediation Board (NMB) urged the
unions comprising the Rail Labor Bargaining Coalition (RLBC) and the carriers represented by the National Carriers’ Conference
Committee to submit their unresolved national contract dispute to binding arbitration pursuant to Section 5, First and Section 7 of
the Railway Labor Act, as amended (RLA). The proffer of arbitration is a mandatory step in the RLA bargaining process. If either
party to the negotiations declines to accept the proffer, the NMB will then notify the parties that its mediatory efforts have failed and
will release them from mediation. By letter dated September 2, 2011, all unions comprising the RLBC notified the NMB that the
RLBC was rejecting the proffer of arbitration. This rejection will release the parties from mediation and will also trigger a final 30-day
cooling off period, after which the parties will legally be entitled to exercise self help.
CLEVELAND, Sept. 8, from the BLE&T Web Site--On Friday September 2, 2011, the National Mediation Board (NMB) urged the
unions comprising the Rail Labor Bargaining Coalition (RLBC) and the carriers represented by the National Carriers’ Conference
Committee to submit their unresolved national contract dispute to binding arbitration pursuant to Section 5, First and Section 7 of
the Railway Labor Act, as amended (RLA). The proffer of arbitration is a mandatory step in the RLA bargaining process. If either
party to the negotiations declines to accept the proffer, the NMB will then notify the parties that its mediatory efforts have failed and
will release them from mediation. By letter dated September 2, 2011, all unions comprising the RLBC notified the NMB that the
RLBC was rejecting the proffer of arbitration. This rejection will release the parties from mediation and will also trigger a final 30-day
cooling off period, after which the parties will legally be entitled to exercise self help.
TWO LETTERS ISSUED BY THE GENERAL CHAIRMAN
KAUKAUNA, WI., Sept. 9, from the General Chairman--John W. Reynolds has issued for posting two letters. The first one is a
letter for claims to the National Railroad Adjustment Board--First Division. To view this letter in PDF, please (CLICK HERE).
The second letter for posting is a protest concerning engineers being forced to allow student engineers to run the train. Please
(CLICK HERE) to view this letter in PDF format.
KAUKAUNA, WI., Sept. 9, from the General Chairman--John W. Reynolds has issued for posting two letters. The first one is a
letter for claims to the National Railroad Adjustment Board--First Division. To view this letter in PDF, please (CLICK HERE).
The second letter for posting is a protest concerning engineers being forced to allow student engineers to run the train. Please
(CLICK HERE) to view this letter in PDF format.
Claims Listed for Arbitration:
KAUKAUNA, WI., Sept 23, from the General Chairman--The following claims were filed for Arbitration to be heard by the First
Division on March 15, 2011. The National Mediation Board ordered the BLET and the Carrier to try and resolve the claims through
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). At this time we have had one ADR meeting in Washington, DC with mediator Pat Sims. To
view complete letter and spreadsheet in PDF format, please (CLICK HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
KAUKAUNA, WI., Sept 23, from the General Chairman--The following claims were filed for Arbitration to be heard by the First
Division on March 15, 2011. The National Mediation Board ordered the BLET and the Carrier to try and resolve the claims through
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). At this time we have had one ADR meeting in Washington, DC with mediator Pat Sims. To
view complete letter and spreadsheet in PDF format, please (CLICK HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman.
| BLET Strike Authorization Vote KAUKAUNA, WI., Sept. 22, an important message from the General Chairman--CN/WC GCA Members: This letter is in reference to the BLET’s preparations to poll members to authorize a strike in the event a strike becomes necessary to attain the Organization’s bargaining goals. The National Mediation Board released the BLET and several other Rail Labor unions from mediation with rail carriers on September 6, triggering a 30-day cooling off period, which expires at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time on October 7, 2011. At that point self-help is available to the parties, unless President Obama appoints a Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) pursuant to Section 10 of the Railway Labor Act. A PEB would halt any strike or lock out by the parties, and would investigate and issue a report and recommendations concerning the dispute. All CN active Locomotive Engineer members, except company officers, will be eligible to participate in the strike authorization vote, however, that participation does not necessarily mean that the CN properties will be struck if we end up in that position. The strike authorization notices have been mailed out to all CN active Engineers. WC property Mobilization Coordinator Chuck Schulz is in the process of contacting the Division Mobilization Coordinators to notify their division members about the distribution of information pertaining to the BLET strike vote. If you have any questions, please contact your Mobilization Coordinator. Fraternally, John W. Reynolds, General Chairman – CN/WC, BLET. |
| A LETTER FROM BROTHER DENNIS PIERCE, PRESIDENT OF THE BLE&T, Subject: Executive Order Establishing a PEB CLEVELAND, Oct. 6--We just received the Executive Order, signed and released by President Obama, appointing a Presidential Emergency Board to hear our dispute over our National Negotiations. It is attached. Please pass this information to your Division Strike Committees, this email will also be circulated by the Mobilization Network. Effective immediately, both the Carriers and the Unions are barred from exercising any form of self help. Accordingly, the BLET National Division will not be issuing any strike orders tonight. To reiterate, all locomotive engineers and involved trainmen should continue to work their assignments in normal fashion, there will be no strike at 12:01 am. In closing, I know that you were all prepared to assist the National Division in leading our members in a job action had it been necessary and legal. Please remember that the attached Executive Order effectively bars us from any form of self help until December 7, 2011. During the next 60 days, it is imperative that we continue our effort to strengthen our networks and remain vigilant to the fact that we may face circumstances similar to today’s on December 7th. I speak for all of us here at the National Division in passing on our thanks for everyone’s continued support in our efforts to bring this bargaining round to a successful conclusion. Fraternally, Dennis R. Pierce (CLICK HERE) to download the Presidential Emergeny Order in pdf. |
| NEW YORK DOCK SECTION 4 UPDATE KAUKAUNA, WI., October 22, from the office of the General Chairman-- Dear Sirs and Brothers, The purpose of this letter is to update you on the status of the negotiations that have been ongoing in an attempt to make an Implementing Agreement pursuant to the New York Dock Protective Conditions in response to the notice dated May 18, 2011 CN served to coordinate the WC, DMIR and DWP properties. The Parties (BLET, UTU and CN) met in person June 21 and 22, 2011 in Duluth, MN; July 13 and 14, 2011 in Minneapolis, MN; and August 24 and 25, 2011 in Green Bay, WI. Additionally, the Parties conducted conference calls on September 30th and October 7th, 14th and 20th, 2011. To date, no Implementing Agreement has been reached. At the conclusion of the meeting held on July 14, 2011, the Carrier announced its intention to seek arbitration pursuant to Section 4 (a) of the Conditions, which provides that: “If at the end of thirty (30) days there is a failure to agree, either party to the dispute may submit it for adjustment…” The Carrier thereafter sought a strike list from the National Mediation Board and as a result of that process, Arbitrator Thomas Rinaldo was selected. The Parties will appear before Arbitrator Rinaldo in Albany, NY on October 27, 2011 to present our arguments. I will represent the GCA and be assisted by our assigned National VP, Marcus Ruef. Arbitrator Rinaldo will issue an Award in connection with this matter in due course, and we will keep you up to date on future developments as they occur. Fraternally, John W. Reynolds, General Chairman – CN/WC, BLET |
| PEB 243 report leaves much unfinished business CLEVELAND, November 7, from the BLE&T Web Site--Presidential Emergency Board No. 243 has issued its Report to President Obama and its recommendations for settlement of the national wage/rules/benefits dispute between 11 unions, including the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), and most of the nation’s Class I railroads. In some ways the PEB recommended adoption of some of the Carriers’ arguments that the United Transportation Union (UTU) settlement be followed but in other ways it modified those terms to give the employees represented by the other unions a more generous settlement. In its presentation to the Board, the Carriers argued that the UTU settlement was a pattern that should be adopted lock, stock and barrel. The PEB did not agree and its recommendation does not strictly follow the Carriers’ demands. For example, the general wage increases proposed by the Board are greater than those found in the UTU agreement. In addition, the Board has recommended a lump sum signing bonus for all employees covered by the agreement, while the UTU agreement only pays lump sums to employees working under the entry rate progression that UTU had previously agreed to. |
| Results of the claims conference that was held in Kaukauna, WI on November 8, 2011. KAUKAUNA, WI., November 29,from the General Chairman--Here are the results from the claims conference held with the carrier at the GCA office on November 8th. Paid claims will be paid on December 16th. Please (CLICK HERE) to download results in pdf. John W. Reynolds, General Chairman. |
Wisconsin & Southern short line to sell controlling ownership to Watco
PITTSBURG, Kan., Nov. 30,from the BLE&T Web Site — Watco Transportation Services, L.L.C. (Watco) and The Wisconsin &
Southern Railroad Co. (WSOR) announced today that they have mutually approved an agreement whereby Watco will acquire
controlling ownership of the WSOR. The WSOR will join forces with Watco, who operates a family of short line and regional
railroads across the nation and offers a multi-faceted transportation business model dedicated to providing the highest level of
Customer satisfaction.
PITTSBURG, Kan., Nov. 30,from the BLE&T Web Site — Watco Transportation Services, L.L.C. (Watco) and The Wisconsin &
Southern Railroad Co. (WSOR) announced today that they have mutually approved an agreement whereby Watco will acquire
controlling ownership of the WSOR. The WSOR will join forces with Watco, who operates a family of short line and regional
railroads across the nation and offers a multi-faceted transportation business model dedicated to providing the highest level of
Customer satisfaction.
| Here are the finalized LMRC notes from our meeting held in November. KAUKAUNA, WI., November 30, from the office of the General Chairman--The final notes from the Labor-Management Resolution Committee notes have been completed and are available by (CLICKING HERE). John W. Reynolds, General Chairman. |
| ARBITRATION PROCEEDING UNDER NEW YORK DOCK ARTICLE 1, SECTION 4--OPINION & AWARD KAUKAUNA, WI., Nov. 30, from the office of the General Chairman--Brothers, Attached please find Arbitrator Rinaldo’s Award imposing an Implementing Agreement in connection with the coordination of the WC, DMIR and DWP properties. We will be scheduling meetings to explain the award, with meetings beginning next week in Superior and St. Point. Fraternally, John Reynolds (CLICK HERE) to download the Arbitration Award and Merger Implementing Agreement. |
| DIVISION 174 HAS SET UP A DISCUSSION BOARD AVAILABLE FOR ALL WISCONSIN CENTRAL GCA MEMBERS STEVENS PT., WI., Dec. 1, from Division 174--A Discussion Board setup on Division 174's web page that is available for use by any Engineer within the WC GCA. The direct link to the Board is: http://www.blet174.org/phpBB3/index.php, there are links on how to register for the Board, so hopefully just a link to the Board should be enough for members to figure out how to sign up. |
| Nationwide strike by the BLE&T is averted FORT WORTH, December 1, By Dennis R. Pierce BLET National President--Exactly two weeks ago an excerpt from my President’ s Message in the Oct/Nov. issue of the Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen News was published on this website. I told you that the issuance of PEB 243’s report and recommendations had placed both the BLET and the Carriers at the point where either they had to reach a voluntary settlement or allow a third party to set our wages and working conditions. (CLICK HERE) for full statement. |
| Issues Involving Transport and Lodging of Away Crews at Chicago KAUKAUNA, WI., Dec. 1, from the office of the General Chairman--The General Chairman has released a letter to the Carrier concerning the proper application of the Agreement to situations where away crews at Chicago are not being properly compensated for travel time between the lodging facility and their purported on/off duty locations. (CLICK HERE) to download the letter in pdf. |
| Federal Motor Safety Commission Bans the use of cell phones while operating a commercial vehicle: CLEVELAND, OH., Dec. 13, released from the BLE&T--Final rule making by the FMCSA prohibits use of a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle (unless its hands free). (CLICK HERE) for full report in pdf. |
| How Corporations Pay More for Lobbyists Than in Taxes: KAUKAUNA, WI., Dec. 13, from the office of the General Chairman--Here is another episode of “the tail wagging the dog” or in other words the 1% vs the 99%. Please pour yourself another cup o’ java and sit back and read the attachment concerning the top 30 companies lobbying Washington versus what they actually pay in taxes. It is astonishing and makes for a very compelling argument as to who is actually running the country. Couple that with the recent changes to the political donations scams and you have a recipe for a national disaster (or more of a one) when it comes to the middle class. Finally, this one article provides even more insight as to why we are now entertaining the tentative agreement and healthcare changes and why organized labor, in general, is constantly fighting an uphill battle. (CLICK HERE) to download these findings in pdf. |
| Former CN head tapped as possible CP boss TORONTO, ONT., Jan. 3, from canadaeast.com--Hunter Harrison, the former head of Canadian National Railway Co., has been approached as a possible candidate to take over the helm of his former rival, Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. and he is apparently receptive to the move, sources familiar with the plan have confirmed. |