Union Had Recommended Passage Of Contract

Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers in Wichita, KS voted down a contract offer reached between union leaders and Bombardier Learjet by an overwhelming majority -- despite the union's recommendation they take the deal.

The ink on the new contract was barely dry when union members met at a Wichita hotel Saturday to vote on the three-year pay deal... which had been hashed out by negotiators on both sides less than 24 hours before, following days of heated talks.

KAKE-10 reports the final offer included a four percent wage increase for the first year, and a three percent annual increase thereafter. The current health plan would be maintained, and pensions would be increased.

But that wasn't good enough for 80 percent of voting members... who felt Bombardier didn't give all it could to workers who took pay cuts three years ago to keep the Wichita plant open. The health plan, in particular, drew fire among union members.

"it's not looking good," said Bombardier employee Rita Clark before the strike vote. "The company is still trying to do us wrong. I need to be paid for what I do."

Not everyone echoed those sentiments.

"I think it is the best we are going to see right now," Kevin Dodds told the television station. I think us going on strike right now isn't going to do a whole lot of good. But there are some people who are for it and if that's what they want, I'll back them up."

The rank-and-file members are scheduled to begin striking the aerospace company at 12:01 am Monday.

FMI: www.goiam.org, www.bombardier.com