Bargaining unit could end individual rights

Editor,

As much of the University community is aware, an electionis coming up during which staff members with certain job titles will decide if they wish to be represented by a collective bargaining unit. I feel certain concepts have not been discussed that staff members should think about before making their final decision as to how they will vote.

First, by voting for union representation, we will eliminate the individual’s power and right to negotiate annual increase percentages with supervisors. Many proponents of union representation have concluded that pitiful staff salaries will miraculously increase if a union for these employees exists. Think about this: it is a fact that UNM members of the Communications Workers of America have, in the past, had to wait as much as two years for a pay increase to be successfully negotiated while staff members that were not covered by CWA received regular, annual increases.

The issue of merit does not and will not exist for employees covered under collective bargaining units. This means that no matter how extraordinary, no matter how outstanding one’s performance is, no one will be rewarded or be given a financial incentive for his or her labors and dedication. Substantial increases based on meritorious efforts will cease to exist. Where, then, is the motivation to strive for excellence?

Secondly, it is well known that one of a union’s greatest and most effective tools in negotiations is the ability to strike when an employer is consistently resistant to the demands and needs of its workers. Even under union representation, by law, we are prohibited to strike or in any way hinder the workflow of the institution. This is because we are a state-run institution and therefore, technically state employees.

Where is the power to effectively represent the needs and demands of staff? What repercussions does the University face if its offer to the bargaining unit is unsatisfactory? Absolutely none. In fact, the University could even benefit at the expense of staff if the bargaining unit takes as long as CWA has in the past to come to an agreement.

Finally, if collective bargaining is passed for these job titles, we again are eliminating choice not only for current employees but also future staff members in these job titles. If a person is hired into a position at UNM that is covered by a collective bargaining unit, that person has no choice but to accept its representation and subsequent decisions. Basically, we would be stripping all financial incentive for the person to perform at peak capacity and to further develop in his or her position.

I am not urging anyone against voting for representation. Each individual has a right to exercise personal judgment. However, I do hope that everyone looks at both sides of the issue before committing either way.

Bridgette Wagner

Administrative assistant

UNM Cancer Research

and Treatment Center