The following is the text of a news release from the International Organization Of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P):
(SAN FRANCISCO) — MM&P is publicizing that the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), the federal agency tasked with prosecuting unfair labor practices, has issued a complaint against Pasha Hawaii, The Pasha Group, and other subsidiaries (Pasha), for violations involving two new containerships being built at Keppel AmFELS in Brownsville, Texas.
MM&P alleged, and the government agrees, that the National Labor Relations Act and its collective bargaining agreement (CBA) require Pasha to bargain in good faith with MM&P and to provide documents for MM&P to review and study before vessel construction begins so the union can confirm that the vessels comply with the living standards set forth in the CBA.
The investigation by NLRB Region 20 determined that MM&P requested information that “is necessary for, and relevant to, the union’s performance of its duties.” The NLRB complaint alleges that Pasha, both orally and in writing, has failed and refused to furnish the union with the information requested. The NLRB is seeking an order to compel Pasha to turn over the documents and to bargain in good faith with MM&P.
“We are pleased with the NLRB’s decision to prosecute Pasha,” said MM&P President Capt. Donald Marcus. “We will not hesitate to take any and all legal action necessary to vindicate the hard-fought contractual rights of MM&P members.”
“Employers who refuse to honor contractual obligations and federally protected rights must be held accountable,” said MM&P Vice President-Pacific Ports J. Lars Turner. “The NLRB’s decision is critical to ending Pasha’s refusal to bargain in good faith. We look forward to returning to the negotiating table in December to discuss proposals reflecting the tremendous skill and professionalism MM&P licensed deck officers bring to the Pasha vessels.”
