January 28, 2009

Dear Members,

On January 12^th and 13^th, ETEA resumed collective bargaining with ILSC management.  As a consequence, and as you might expect, we have further decisions to consider.  At the risk of sounding like a broken record, it is vitally important that your presence be counted.  Everyone on the Bargaining Committee (that includes your Executive, by the way) has generated a number of potential directions we can take when we go back to the table on February 10^th.  As stated in the last memo, this round of negotiations comes with a unique set of challenges. We depend on your input to form and set our objectives. 

Our membership has shown strong solidarity over the last several months and your attendance and participation at meetings have been greatly appreciated.  You have been there, raised your concerns and voiced your opinions.  This has set the tone and direction of our negotiations. As we are nearing a critical juncture in bargaining, we need your voice, now, more than ever.

We (Karen and I) will be visiting the campuses this Friday at lunch to answer any questions and to give you a gentle (perhaps a little firmer than gentle) nudge to join your membership on February 4^th at BCIT, Room 840 at 4:30.

Please do everything you can to attend this very important meeting.

We count on your continued support. 

In Solidarity,

Bari Blackhart                   Karen McCullough

President            Vice President