TEAMSTERS SAVE LIVES, WIN STRONG CONTRACT

Workers Who Make Bulletproof Plates Get Pay Increases, Grievance Procedure

Teamsters who manufacture plates for bulletproof vests and related safety equipment for U.S. troops ratified their first contract on February 9 with M-Cubed in Newark, Delaware. The new three-year agreement boosts the workers' wages and features other improvements.

The workers at M-Cubed voted to join Local 326 in April 2004. Though there were 70 employees when the workers were first organized at the company, there are now 142 workers in the bargaining unit.

The company also makes bulletproof helicopter seats, armor plates for military vehicles and bulletproof shoulder plates for soldiers.

"These Teamsters are helping to save lives around the world," said John Ryan Sr., President of New Castle, Delaware-based Local 326. "They deserve fair pay and decent benefits for all their hard work."

While attempting to negotiate a first contract, Local 326 was successful in defeating a decertification petition in April 2005. Contract negotiations then resumed.

The contract has numerous improvements, including:

• An immediate wage increase of between 12 and 15 percent;
  
  
• Wage increases of 2.5 percent in year two and three of the contract;
  
  
• A fairer overall pay system;
  
  
• A grievance procedure;
  
  
• A fair seniority system; and
  
  
• Bidding rights.
  
  

"The leadership of General President Jim Hoffa made all of this possible," Ryan said. "Thanks also to Joint Council 53 President Frank Gillen and the staff members from the International Union’s Organizing and Capital Strategies departments."