‘Substantial Progress’ Made in Contract Talks

APWU President William Burrus has told union members that “substantial progress” was made in contract talks held over the weekend, but specific details are still being negotiated. 

The full text of President Burrus’ message is below: 

Hello, this is Bill Burrus, president of the American Postal Workers Union, speaking to you on Monday, Dec. 4. 

Although I instructed union attorneys to make initial preparations for arbitration last week, contract negotiations between the APWU and the Postal Service continued throughout the weekend, and substantial progress was made. We are cautiously optimistic about the possibility of reaching a negotiated settlement, although some specific details of an agreement remain to be finalized. 

Members of the Rank-and-File Bargaining Advisory Committee are scheduled to return to Washington on Wednesday, Dec. 6, to review the progress of negotiations. If an agreement has been reached, they will review its specific terms. Under the provisions of the APWU Constitution, a majority of the committee must approve any tentative agreement before it can be sent to union members for a ratification vote. 

The National Executive Board also will meet in Washington DC on Wednesday, Dec. 6. 

Thank you for your continued support and for your commitment to the APWU.