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State and Two Maritime Unions Reach Agreement

 

May 12, 2007
Saturday


The State of Alaska's Division of Personnel and Labor Relations announced Friday that a one year collective bargaining agreement has been reached with two of the Maritime Bargaining Units. The International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P) represents the licensed deck officers on the Alaska Marine Highway System and the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEBA) represents the licensed engineers working for the Alaska Marine Highway System. The agreement covers the period of July 1, 2007, through June 30, 2008.

These are the fourth and fifth agreements reached under the new administration. The State continues to negotiate with Alaska State Employees Association (ASEA) and the Alaska Public Employees Association (APEA).

"I am pleased to see us reach tentative agreement with these two critical employee groups," said Annette Kreitzer, Commissioner of the Department of Administration. "Having a contract that recognizes the hard work of those represented by these two Maritime Units is important for the State as well as the Alaska Marine Highway System."

Dianne Kiesel, Director for the State of Alaska's Division of Personnel and Labor Relations, noted, "MMP and MEBA represent a unique and highly skilled group of employees who navigate our coastal Alaskan waters." Kiesel outlined major points in the MMP and MEBA collective bargaining agreement:

  • Salaries will increase three percent July 1, 2007, and;
  • The State's contribution for health insurance will be covered at the level necessary to provide for the Select Benefits Default/Economy Plan.

Nancy Sutch served as the Chief Spokesperson with Dennis Hardy, Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Transportation serving on the bargaining team for the State of Alaska. Captain Steven Demeroutis led the MM&P bargaining team, and Louie "Bud" Jacque served as the Chief Spokesperson along with Ben Goldrich in representing the MEBA.

 

Source of News:

Alaska's Division of Personnel and Labor Relations

 

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