Manpower Illinois: A Crisis Brewing in the Railroads' History?

The recent downturn in business has led to a manpower crisis in the railroads, with hundreds of train service employees being furloughed despite exhaustive efforts to negotiate agreements for AWTS boards. This crisis is not new, as similar situations have occurred throughout the history of the railroads. In fact, it's a pattern that Carrier seems intent on repeating.

Carrier's methodical short-staffing of boards and excessive furloughing has created a skeleton workforce already overworked and fatigued. When business volumes return, Carrier will not be able to meet the needs of service. This is because the Organization has been unable to negotiate agreements for AWTS boards, which provide an immediate source of manpower when business volumes rise.

The history of the railroads is marked by upturns and downturns in business, but it's clear that Carrier has failed to learn from its past mistakes. The General Committee has voiced serious concerns about Carrier's approach, which prioritizes short-term gains over long-term sustainability. This approach not only harms employees but also undermines the Organization's ability to provide quality service.

One example of this failure is the recent furloughing of hundreds of train service employees in Eugene, Oregon. This move has forced employees to work on unfamiliar territories and incurred a large number of off-district claims. It's clear that Carrier is not prioritizing the needs of its employees or the Organization as a whole.

The Crew Consist Agreements are designed to ensure that boards are staffed so that reasonable lay-off privileges, personal leave opportunities, and vacation relief can be granted. However, these reductions have violated vacancy procedures, forcing employees to work on unfamiliar territories and incurring off-district claims.

It's time for Carrier to take responsibility for its actions and prioritize the needs of its employees and the Organization. The General Committee has called for relief and concessions to address this crisis, but so far, Carrier has refused to budge. It's clear that the only way forward is through negotiation and cooperation between the parties involved.

In conclusion, the manpower crisis in Illinois is a symptom of a larger problem within the railroads industry. Carrier must take responsibility for its actions and prioritize the needs of its employees and the Organization. Only then can we work towards a solution that benefits all parties involved.

Manpower illinois