In an effort to better communicate information as quickly as possible to the Local 60 Membership, here is the ” HOT TOPICS” for this week.
A) On April 3 I had another meeting with the Carrier over SLEEP APNEA as it relates to our Members. I am trying to get a more direct line of communication to the medical department for questions and assistance during the process. We asked that the forms being given to our doctors be updated so our doctors can approve an “opt out option” for the MWT test. I am also pushing for all Members who are negative to be absolved of any deductibles. I will keep you informed of the progress made on these issues as I get answers from the Carrier.
B) I have a meeting set up with our Designated Legal Counsel Matt Darby concerning our petitions over the SLEEP APNEA cases. If any Member has not contacted me yet about their case please do so soon. sburkert@utulocal60.com
C) I met with Safety Department over the removal of Asbestos on the MU cars. We reviewed the Carrier’s safety bulletins and process for alerting our Members of locations and types of Asbestos that are present. The asbestos removal will be discussed in the annual BOR class for all Members.
D) I met with the Carrier on Monday at NJT HQ over payroll, DH and gas mileage issues. I explained AGAIN, that the delay in our Members getting paid properly is unacceptable. In attendance was the Chief Financial Officer Livharcik who stated they will be putting more clerks in payroll department to handle our requests in a more timely manner. He agrees that the system in place is not working properly and adjustments need to be made for a better result for our Members. I will continue to push for improvements from the Carrier on these issues.
E) I attended the NJT Board of Directors meeting on Tuesday April 10. I did have a chance to speak with Executive Director Corbett on several subjects of concern to our Members. I will be sitting down with him in the near future to discuss these issues in a more in-depth setting.
Please email me feedback or suggestions, I am here for you the Members. sburkert@utulocal60.com
Fraternally,
Stephen J. Burkert
General Chairman
