Current Issue: click cover to view - Teamsters Local 25

Thomas Risdon
Red
Cross
R I E S
Local 25 business agent. “But in the eleventh hour under the
Teamsters Local 25 has proudly hosted a monthly blood bank
for the local American Red Cross since 1964, donating thousands
of pints of blood over the years. When the company did
not seem interested in renewing a labor contract with Local 25,
we knew we had to work quickly to get it done and protect our
members. We were far apart with the company regarding wages,
health care and shift differentials. Local 25 gave the company a
10-day notice of strike (which must be done in the healthcare
industry) and the clock started ticking.
“It was certainly an anxious few days as we prepared to strike
this highly esteemed health care institution,” said George Slicis,
leadership of President Sean O’Brien, we were able to deliver a
strong contract for our members, and they ratified it by a 52 to 4
vote in favor.”
“For nearly 50 years, we have had a strong, positive relationship
with the Red Cross, through our blood bank and other
activities,” O’Brien said. “However, if an employer attempts to
harm our members’ livelihoods, no matter who or what they
are, we will stand up and fight for what is right. In this case, we
responded to a threat to our members’ security and we prevailed.
We negotiated a strong contract for our Red Cross
members and we will continue to host our blood bank for the
Red Cross to help the citizens of the Bay State who are in need
of blood.”
Local 25 represents 80 members at Red Cross, and they conduct
mobile operations and distribution. Members set up blood
drives and handle the blood packs. Workers pack the blood
packs on ice and bring the product back to the lab for processing
and distribute where needed.
See Blood Bank, Page 27
Red Cross members vote in favor of the contract.
www.teamsterslocal25.com | SPRING 2013 | The SPOKESMAN | 11