Food Fight Scrutinized by NLRB

by Phil Fairbanks
Immediate Past President

The National Labor Relations Board is investigating claims that The Buffalo News violated federal law by making unilateral changes in its cafeteria service.

The board, at the request of the Guild, has assigned an agent to look into allegations that The News circumvented the bargaining process when it reduced cafeteria hours last year. The changes, which include the elimination of nighttime service, was put into effect without the involvement of the Guild and most of the other unions at the paper. The News must bargain with the union when seeking to change terms and conditions of employement.

Over the past month, the agent has taken affidavits from News executives and Tina Destro, the Guild's Local Service Representative.

The NLRB's investigation is the result of Unfair Labor Practice charges filed by the Guild and two other unions at The News.

From the start, the Guild has maintained that cafeteria service is a mandatory subject of bargaining and, therefore, the unions should have been involved in discussions regarding changes to the cafeteria.

The union also believes the elimination of night hours has placed an unfair burden on the people who need the service the most -- nightside employees with few options outside the building.

Before filing the ULP, the Guild attempted to bargain a settlement with The News that would have restored night service in the 5th floor cafeteria and reopened the 2nd floor cafeteria. The company rejected that settlement.

The Guild also continues to protest the lack of security in the parking lot under the Thruway. Several members have complained about break-ins and vandalism. As part of its efforts, the Guild has requested a copy of The News' lease with the state.