The negotiations broke off after the Sept 6th mediation session when the city insisted on unreasonable concessions which we believe far exceeded the realistic pattern established by the PBA award. The UFA declared impasse that day and announced it is immediately filing for binding arbitration at PERB. A press release was faxed to all firehouses that afternoon. President Cassidy answered questions at the Sept 8th Union Meeting. The Citizens Budget Commission, after its review of the PBA PERB Award, reported in the media that givebacks amounted to “about 1.25 percent of the 10 percent raise, not 5.5 percent as City Hall asserts.” The City’s position continues to be totally unreasonable in its concession demands to match the PBA Award, and has asked for the following givebacks, which are totally unacceptable:
- 4 month, 11 day contract extension above the 24 month PBA contract
- Elimination of 15-hour adjusted tour
- RSOT Rescheduling;
For Future Hire givebacks:
- New salary step rate and extension for all future hires
- No annuity until 1st grade for all future hires
- 4 fewer holidays until 1st grade for all future hires
- 48 fewer hours annual leave until 1st grade for all future hires
- Night Shift Differential reduction to 55% until 1st grade for all future hires
The UFA will continue its efforts to secure a fair contract and will keep the membership advised of any significant updates as they become available. It is more important now then ever that all NYC Firefighters stand united and show our resolve to a mayor who does not respect the increasing danger we face every day protecting the citizens of New York City!!!
Fraternally,
