3/16 bargaining update

This session provided some definite signs of progress, and even an acknowledgment from company rep Jim Janiga that cutting the newsroom isn't in the company's best interests.

The team continued their push to protect bargaining unit work, but offered a proposal that would provide for work currently performed by management would stay intact for six months, provided that Guild staffing levels aren't affected.

In response to industry conditions, the team also stated they would agree to a proposal that would tie wage freezes at the DN to the rest of MediaNews, which could temporarily impact the unit's two-percent raise for as long as MediaNews has a wage freeze in place.

The team told the Employer they would agree to raising the cell phone stipend to $10, and continued to push for a higher vacation cap, as well as an enhanced severance package for laid off employees.

The company will offer their response at the next session, tentatively scheduled for Thursday the 19th. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Guild rep Vicki Di Paolo at 562.259.9430 or scmg9400@gmail.com