Category Archives: Political

Correctional Officers TA includes Raises & Double Time After 16 hours OT

  November 23, 2019 - 9:51 am | , , ,
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Sununu, corrections officers union reach tentative agreement

By Kevin Landrigan

New Hampshire Union Leader

CONCORD — Gov. Chris Sununu and officials with Teamsters Local 633 announced Friday they’ve reached a tentative, two year contract for the state’s corrections officers.

Under the agreement, workers would get 4% pay increases, one next year and another in 2021 and it also addresses overtime, longevity, health care and other benefits.

It will cost the state $2.5 million and there is money set aside in the current state budget for collective bargaining agreements.

“I am pleased that we were able to come together and reach an agreement that both recognizes the tremendous work of our State employees and protects the interests of the State’s taxpayers,” said Sununu. “Both sides negotiated in good faith, and achieved a fair compromise that delivers a true win-win for the State and its hard working employees. This is truly the New Hampshire way, and I extend my sincere thanks to the Teamsters and the state employees they represent for their hard work in getting us to this point.”

The negotiating committee of the union unanimously approved the deal that still must be ratified by the rank and file.

“While this was a lengthy negotiation, I am pleased with the results. Our members will be voting on this contract in the very near future. I want to thank Governor Sununu for getting personally involved in these negotiations and for his support in reaching a compromise agreement,” said Jeff Padellaro, principal officer with the union.

The deal permits corrections officers getting double time for overtime in excess of 16 hours each week and increases longevity pay from $350 to $400.

Corrections Commissioner Helen Hanks said this agreement should help fill a chronic shortage of corrections officers throughout the system.

“New Hampshire’s corrections officers provide an invaluable service to the state of New Hampshire,” said Hanks. “Corrections officers in surrounding states and in federal facilities have historically earned higher wages comparatively, the result of which has been chronic shortages and vacancies. The benefits and wage increases included in this contract agreement will undoubtedly assist our recruiting and retention efforts.”

Sununu still has to resolve negotiations with three other unions that represent state workers.

The State Employees Association represents the lion’s share of workers throughout state government.

The New England Police Benevolent Association represents probation and parole officers along with Fish and Game Department union employees.

The New Hampshire Troopers Association represents state troopers.

klandrigan@unionleader.com

Joyce Craig’s Historic Victory in Manchester Mayoral Race

  November 9, 2017 - 7:52 am | ,
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Mayoral Candidate Joyce Craig was introduced to the membership Sunday, November 5, 2017, prior to the monthly membership meeting being called to order. The Teamsters represent several bargaining units employed by the City and the School District. Principal Officer Jeff Padellaro stated that he was impressed with Ms. Craig’s positive and enthusiastic outlook for the City of Manchester. Jeff Padellaro stated, “It is time for the executive of this fine city to address the issues that resulted in other communities pulling out of the Manchester School District. Mayor-elect Craig is uniquely qualified to address that issue and to take action in support of the schools to entice the surrounding communities to come back to the Manchester School District.” Padellaro continued, “It will be a pleasant change to have a mayor that appreciates not only the taxpayers, but also the men and women who work for the City to make it all work, many of whom are also taxpayers and residents.”

Candidate Craig was well- received by the Teamster members in attendance at the monthly meeting. 

Congratulations, Mayor-elect Craig!

 

Teamsters Attend Labor Day Breakfast 2017

  September 5, 2017 - 10:53 am | ,
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“Local 633 had a strong showing at the Annual 2017 Labor Day Breakfast held at the Saint George Orthodox Cathedral in Manchester,” according to Jeff Padellaro. Senator Maggie Hassan, pictured above, greeted old friends at the Breakfast. Pictured with Senator Hassan are Principal Officer Jeff Padellaro; Business Agent Rick Laughton; Business Agent Kevin Foley; Field Representatives Keith Judge and Roger Travers; and Trustees Scott Gove and James Petrillo. 

The Breakfast was attended by labor leaders along with politicians representing local and state government. Jeff Padellaro commented that without union representation the working class can not keep pace with the rising cost of living. Without representation, we would have working men and women of this country facing the accountants and lawyers representing corporate interests, with the worker standing alone, without the protection of the Union to act as a shield against arbitrary and capricious actions of the corporation.