NLRB weighs in on Hawaiian Telcom-union spat

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) dismissed unfair labor-practice charges filed by IBEW Local Union 1357 against Hawaiian Telcom as part of a contract dispute that has left the telco and union without a contract for more than 200 days.

On its website, IBEW Local 1357 said the charges claimed Hawaiian Telcom was "not bargaining in good faith," adding, "While we are disappointed with the decision, our goal of making sure we position the members to succeed is not done." The union stated that it is meeting with its attorney as well as its international office to explore possibilities including a strike, slowdown/sickout, appeal of the NLRB decision, acceptance of the impasse as-is, and continuing to negotiate with the telco.

The site also acknowledges "division among the rank and file, caused by the employer, about whether we should acquiesce and take what they give us or fight them to the death."

Hawaiian Telcom recalled the negotiation process as follows: "After good faith bargaining reached an impasse, the company proceeded with the implementation of the last, best and final offer that had been presented to the union but rejected by a vote last December."

While the union did not state a definite intention to appeal on its website, the company said it "is aware that union leadership intends to appeal the NLRB's dismissal." Hawaiian Telcom added that, "Dialogue between the company and IBEW 1357 representatives is ongoing."

IBEW Local 1357 referred to Hawaiian Telcom chief executive officer Eric Yeaman by title only in a strongly worded message. "The membership must realize," the union said, "that ever since the CEO took over in 2008, we have been fighting for our lives. And it is with the support of our membership and your willingness to stay strong ... that we have moved the company to the precipice." The notice to membership also asks them to "please be responsible and make sure you do not deviate from policy and procedures, and please continue to help out your friends and peers."

For its part, Hawaiian Telcom notes in Yeaman's bio that he "has successfully led the company's return to profitability, stabilization of its business (customers, employees and systems) and positioning for the future."

You can visit the IBEW Local 1357 website here. It includes documentation from the negotiation process. You can find information about Hawaiian Telcom here.