Keeping and creating good union jobs requires the constant vigilance of Local 812 members, staff and officers. Last spring, Coke workers in Elmsford noticed that the company was stepping up its use of outside contractors to haul loads that 812 members should have been hauling.

The union's top priority is keeping Local 812 jobs secure. The companies we work for, however, are always looking for ways to increase their own profits, and often attempt to contract out union work to non-union companies who pay their workers far less.

After filing multiple grievances and months of actions, discussions and negotiations, President Ed Weber and the executive board have secured an agreement that returns haulage work to Hartford, Albany, Pitston and Mt. Pocono to Local 812 members in the Coca Cola haulage department.

"As a former Coke haulage driver and now, as local President, I know how important it is that our work be performed by our members. When it was brought to our attention that certain work was being done by outside contractors, Coke was immediately informed that this is something the union will not tolerate. With an agreement now in place, we have succeeded in protecting good member jobs and have laid the groundwork for creating additional Local 812 jobs," said Local 812 President Ed Weber.

Business Agent Larry DeBellis explained, "Coming out of Elmsford, I know how important this issue is. We let management know in no uncertain terms this has to be fixed. We would put our guys against any outside company and there is no doubt that our guys would do the better job. Our members are far and above the most qualified."

"I identified with this contracting out issue immediately. As a former haulage driver, I put myself in their shoes. These haulage jobs are good jobs and must be protected and we had to let this company know this, " said Business Agent Jim Surdi.

Local 812 members and stewards are the eyes and ears of the union. Thanks to an active and informed Elmsford membership, we were able to reverse the contracting out before any union jobs were lost. And with Coke contract negotiations just around the corner, we've all got to stay alert and stand together!

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