MDA-UAW & COMPANY UPDATES
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Friday Oct 30, 2020 1:45 pm Good afternoon all, I am putting this out to, hopefully, address he concern about WFH. We have negotiated in good faith with the company and have agreed to a side letter (needs to be finalized) that allows MDA to work from ome through the current ratified contract, 52 months. There is no need for any other memos going out extending anything, that as only for the MDA. Again, we are trying to finalize the side letter and WFH will continue for at least the next 52 months. This, as always, is per management approval and the TSO guidelines. We must communicate with supervision about any issues that may come up. Time, hours, work, etc... WFH is a great opportunity and we need to ontinue working responsibly and being accountable. We have heard of a couple of employees loosing there jobs due to WFH, recording hours but not really working. The company knows when you are on or off line, please continue to work well as you all have been and communicate any issues with your supervisor. I hope this helps and clears up the question everyone has. Have a great day, In Solidarity, Bill Louis |
THURSDAY JUNE 19, 2020 9:32 AM Hello all, here are a few updates. 1. The N.L. garage will stay as is, open to all. There is enough employees WFH which allows plenty of parking for all. With that said, the shuttle service will continue to be shut down, for the reasons above. If enough employees request the shuttle, they may consider it coming back. 2. Groton Dental has been charging a PPE fee to members. This was discussed and thought to be fixed June 4th. Apparently, it hasn't as they are still continuing to charge. It is a breach on contract for them to charge us any fee and if they did, they should be reimbursing you. Please let us know of any issues you may have with this. 3. Employees, WFH, who come into the plant for testing, will not be paid for the travel time. They will have a shop order for testing and you will be paid for your time in the plant while testing. Any lost travel time can be made up during the week. 4. The flexibility going forward, per new memo, will allow start times to choose between 6:00am and 7:30am. 10 hour days will be offered for both in plant and WFH. Please communicate with your supervisor as to what you plan to do for your time. Second shift 10 hours, for those who can't return to first and maintain social distance, will be 3:00pm to 1:00am and shift premium will be paid. Any other time starts and ends or other flexibility must be discussed with your supervisor for approval. 5. The company is not offering a second shift, as of the week of June 28th. They want all on first shift. The company is willing to make accommodations to those who don't want to return to first, when social distancing can be accomplished, but this would be your choice and no 7% will be paid. Again, 2nd shift will continue through the week of June 27th and all on second through this time will be paid the 7% shift premium. Getting all back on first shift is opening the 10's back up along with more flexibility for all. Second shift has been a temporary assignment by volunteers and not expected to be forever at this point. 6. The 2720 shop order used by members, will start to be withdrawn the beginning of July. As stated from the beginning, the company will withdraw up to 4 hours, straight pay, per week until the amount used is paid back, $ for $. Unfortunately, we don't have any other options or ways to pay this back. We talk about a lot of other ways but the company says it would be administratively impossible to do so. As also mention, this money must be paid back in 2020. 7. We finalized the recognition award yesterday with the company, which is why there were no updates to date. The company asked me to hold off on that communication until they put it out which is tomorrow, hopefully. All I will say to it, is thank you to all who shared there thoughts on this issue, it was heard and changes were made for the better. Again, I will communicate this in a video and share on our Facebook union page. Unfortunately I can't send them to the union site or by email because it ends up to large. Thank you all for your patience and understanding as we come closer to getting back to normal. Any questions, PLEASE, call us at the office and I would be glad to discuss anything. Take care and have a great day. |
WEDNESDAY JUNE 17, 2020 9:09 AM Hello all, these 2 issues have come up. Please share with members. Members who have been going to dentist appointments have been charged PPE fees. This was discussed between EB benefits and Groton Dental and the issue has been resolved. Anyone who has been charged and paid a fee should be reimbursed. It would be a breach of contract to be charged such a fee. Members who are working from home and want to come in the plant for testing that is being offered, will not be paid for travel time. This has been mentioned in the past but some members say they are not aware, please pass this along also. They will be paid for there time in the plant during the testing. Folks can make up the travel time during the week. Also, we have questions into HR that needs answers and we have yet to get them since the middle of last week. When we get the answer, we will share them. 2720 memo? Thank you and please let us know of any other questions, have a great day, In Solidarity, Bill |
WEDNESDAY MAY 20, 2020 7:28 AM Please see below memo on hours and next week float option: The memo refers to hours with and without O.T. and we look at this as a guideline and the biggest part of this is, being out of the plant by 2:30 pm to allow cleaning. After discussion with HR and V.P. of Design and Engineering, we are looking for some flexibility, so long as we discuss with management and have support to do so. The flexibility will allow folks coming in, staggered, and leaving the same way which will avoid the lines in the garage and get more folks out even before 2:30, again, to allow for cleaning and help with the social distancing and still be within the memo intentions. These are some of the questions received this morning and hoping we can agree to the flexibility: (Some examples, not all) The hope is, this flexibility can be implemented going forward, not just the holiday week. QUESTIONS BEING ASKED
All these examples are within the memo and get more folks out of the plant as originally thought and avoids 2-3 for cleaning, for many.These examples also cost nothing and would be more than appreciative to have the options/flexibility. As for working from home, there are no specific hours tied to it and I thought that was fine due to working from home, you can get your 8 or 9 hours in during the day? WORKIN FROM HOME
Some folks working from home split there time between morning and afternoon to support both shifts. We just want to make it consistent, that's all. We could make a lot of folks happy with this flexibility, any help would be appreciated. We appreciate everything to date trying to make everyone happy and this would be all good stuff. Again HR and V.P. supports this flexibility so long as it is communicated and supported by supervisors/management. Thank you for your time and patience. Please let us know of any questions, Bill |
Coronavirus Update: May 19 Message from Kevin Graney Hi everyone, today is Tuesday, May 19. We have one additional positive case of COVID-19 to report since my last podcast on Friday. The individual works in department 902 at Quonset Point in Building 60. It’s our understanding the individual was hospitalized for an issue unrelated to COVID, but because all patients admitted to hospitals are now automatically tested, this person’s COVID-positive status was identified. The person was tested on May 13, and their last day of work was also May 13. We’ve now completed more than 4,500 tests for COVID-19 antigens and antibodies. We are evaluating the data and have identified only two new cases of COVID-19, and I’ve previously reported both of those. If you work at the Groton shipyard and missed your scheduled test slot, I strongly encourage you to come in for our last make-up session this Thursday, May 21 in the Bldg. 88 Tech Center third-floor conference room. For those of you working from home, more advanced notice about this additional session should enable you to make arrangements, such as child care, so that you can come in and get tested. Tomorrow the state of Connecticut begins its phased reopening allowing offices, retail stores, outdoor museums and zoos to reopen with certain restrictions, along with outdoor restaurant dining. Our next milestone here at EB, as we continue to Recover with Resilience, is this coming Saturday, May 23rd, which marks the last day of the Blue/Gold shift rotation in the Groton shipyard. I’ve talked to a good number of our trades folks over the last few days and, from what people shared with me, most were pleased to get back to more of a routine schedule. Stopping this rotation will restore some normalcy back to people’s lives, and maintaining our practices for testing, personal hygiene, social distancing, cleaning and mask wearing help ensure we can do it safely. Our combined effort and teamwork have resulted in very low numbers of COVID-19 cases over the last several weeks and no large-scale person-to-person spread – all of that while we’ve been able to meet some important mission objectives. Another reason we are restoring more of a normal production schedule is because we have received more modules in Groton, allowing us to spread the team across a larger area. We also expect to be floating off the 793 boat in the coming days, providing us another opportunity to spread our people out across the shipyard. Spreading people out AND continuing our COVID safety and distancing protocols allows us to safely resume more normal shift work-hours and weekly workday schedules in Groton. Although we’re returning to normal shifts in Groton, we are still continuing COVID protocols like working from home and shift work for the design and engineering team in New London. We are also continuing to require the use of face coverings in the shipyard and buildings and will continue to frequently clean high-traffic areas. We continue to stagger lunch periods and will keep up the Wet Dock tent to better spread people out during lunchtime. Mobile handwashing stations will remain in place and hand sanitizer will be readily available throughout our facilities. We will continue to have a one-hour time gap between shifts to clean and ensure people leaving one shift do not cross paths with those arriving in the next. In the event there is a positive case of COVID-19, we will continue to conduct contact tracing and testing, and of course we will continue to pass information so that the team can stay well informed. Thank you for continuing to be vigilant in monitoring your own health. Remember, if you don’t feel well, please do not come to work. Thanks for listening. Kevin |
TUESDAY MAY 19, 2020 3:02 PM We do encourage the testing. It is very easy and goes quickly. Thanks, Bill 4500 test to date with only 2 new cases. We are holding an additional walk-in COVID 19 Testing Session on Thursday, May 21 in Building 88 3rd Floor Conference Room, 8 AM – 12 PM and 1 PM to 5 PM. A significant number of employees currently working from home have not been tested. Please contact any employees in your Directorate who may be working from home to let them know that this session will be scheduled and that we are making an effort to give everyone an opportunity to be tested. No appointments are necessary. Attached is a document with some facts about testing that might be helpful to you in answering any of their questions. Also attached is the informed consent form that any employees coming to be tested should bring completed to the test session. |
TUESDAY MAY 19, 2020 1:46 PM We understand there was an issue with being able to log on this morning from home. We also understand that you were all told to make up the hours or use your own time. Unfortunately, this has been the same answer for a few in the past couple of weeks and the answer was the same. We do have a call into HR to address this specific issue, waiting on an answer back. On another note, folks "WILL" be able to float next week. We are just waiting on the hours to be confirmed and will get out tomorrow. Thanks and I hope all is well, Bill |
MONDAY MAY 18, 2020 3:38 PM Updated Memo on Revised Shift Work Hours and Work From Home |
THURSDAY MAY 14, 2020 2:45 PM Hello all, just want to share the communication we have been having with the company. 2852 unpaid shop order The memo in regards to using 2852 unpaid shop order, will expire on June 1st. Any employee who has been out of work on this shop order for 30 straight days or more, are receiving letters stating you will loose your job if you don't return to work by June 1st. "IF" this goes away, completely, on June 1st, that is correct. We do not expect the company to start firing folks on June 1st. We are working on the limits and use of the 2852 shop order following June 1st. If you are one of these individuals, the first thing the company would like to do, is get you back to work. This should happen through using your own devise or the company providing a laptop or returning to the facility. Please let me know if you HAVE NOT been offered this opportunity. We need to start understanding who the members are that are looking to continue staying out past June 1st. Please call us at the union office: 860-448-0552. 2nd shift This is voluntary and should continue going forward until at least June 18th, per a new memo. If members "volunteer" to come back to first, you can do that. Please communicate with your supervisor. You should not be forced back to first shift unless there are reasons that may have to be addressed or discussed that we are not aware of. Working from Home This will continue also going forward til at least June 18th, per new memo. Please communicate with your management, working leaders and/or Chargeperson. We would like to show that working from home does work and benefits all by getting our work done and meeting schedules and dates. From the feedback we have had, folks are saying that they get more work done from home due to no distractions which is good to hear, keep up the good work. Work From Home Overtime WFH O.T. is on a trial bases starting Monday May 18th until June 18th. The company will review to see if it is beneficial. In other words, let’s make sure we perform at home to show it does work and we can continue it. The Union and Company signed a new memo that opens up the O.T. starting May 18th for 1 hour per day. If approved and has always been available for Saturday and/or Sunday, if approved. At the plant, hours for first shift will 5:00am through 2:00pm (only). You can get your 8 or 9 hours a day during this time and also use this time to make up any hours missed during the week. 2nd shift hours will be between 3:00pm and midnight and you can get your 8 or 9 hours in that time or use that same time to make up hours as needed. We must maintain the 1 hour, 2:00pm through 3:00pm for the cleaning. Overtime applies to employees working from home also: 1 hour per day O.T. and 5 hours on Saturday and/or Sunday, if approved. We have also heard that the company is working on some kind of first half incentive. More info to come, still waiting on details. Thanks and please let us know of any questions. We appreciate everyone's effort in making changes daily. Hopefully we can get back to normal soon, the only question is, understanding what the new normal will look like. Bill |
WEDNESDAY, MAY 06, 2020 7:23 AM Good morning all, I will do my best to answer some questions. TESTING: We just me yesterday on this and Kevin G put out a communication before we had a chance to pass anything on.
Please refer to the yard hospital with any questions you may have. 7-4002, 3-1184 or 3-3470. RETIREES The Company just came to us to see if there may be any retirees interested in coming back to work. This would be to help get our work/jobs done. This would "NOT" happen unless we fully agree to all terms. Existing members "WILL" be afforded O.T. before anyone comes into work from the outside. "NO" member, any MDA, will be laid off while any of the outside folks are in. There is no shortage of work today. The primary departments are Electrical and Structural that need help. They would most likely be brought in through a Job Shop group, already discussed this. Yes, this is how they would pay dues. More details need to be worked out prior to this happening, if it happens at all. It is just in discussions. We put out info to see who may be interested, that is it at this moment. Hours, benefits, time frame.......all being worked and if we the Union, don't agree with details, it won't happen, its that simple. So, at this time, we are looking for names ONLY, who may be interested and when we have all the details, and agree to them, we will reach out to those folks and go from there. Thank you all for your questions, thoughts and concerns, please let me know if there is anything else. Have a great day, |
FRIDAY, MAY 01, 2020 5:01 PM You all did a fantastic job this month and showed how we resilient we can be even when faced with a COVID-19 pandemic! This month you all accomplished the following:
In the Navy, we would call this “demonstrating the ability to fight hurt” and you all did it well! You should all be proud of what you have accomplished! Thank you, Emil Emil Casciano |
MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2020 9:03 AM Paying back the 80 hours update: I Just spoke with HR and asked the question about paying back the 80 hours, hour for hour or $ for $. The very quick answer was "Dollar for Dollar". What ever you used and the amount it came to, will be what is paid back over the time. I hope this helps with the questions folks had and the thought that the company is out to screw you with interest. The dollar amount you received is the dollar amount you pay back, period. Thank you and hope all is well. Bill |
THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2020 8:29 AM Paying back the 80 hours I understand there has been many questions on, how do we pay back the time used of the 80 hours. We have not, officially, put the memo together on this, but, here are some options that we have been talking to the company about. Again, not official. We are looking at other options also but these are the most common to date. All hours used must be paid back in 2020. Starting in July, for 20 weeks, the Company will start withdrawing the money for all hours used. The Company will not withdraw any more than four (4) hours per week. All hours paid back will come from straight hours worked or earned. Option 1 |
TUESDAY, APRIL 21, 2020 7:23 AM Working from home using your own computer If you are home, out of work, and this is a possibility for you, please contact your supervisor. Let them know of any questions you may have also and if needed, you can also contact you Union office at 860-448-0552. |
WEDNESDAY FRIDAY APRIL 17, 2020 7:06 AM |
WEDNESDAY APRIL 15, 2020 11:06 AM I know many have been asking about masks, see below. This is where we are today.Once the 20,000 come in, hopefully Friday, the company will be distributing.On another note, just wanted to share that there have been 27 positive cases to date with 16 of those returned to work after 72 hours symptom free and testing negative. I also found out the results of Tower B, 4th floor, 8 people sent home on March 17th. Apparently I was not informed, but all were returned to work April 1st, I believe, and the 1 in question tested negative. Thanks and hope all is well,Bill |
MONDAY APRIL 13, 2020 This MAY help employees who have been out of work. Not intended for employees who are working.This information came from the National Law Review, published, April 9th.It allows people to receive unemployment due to quarantine, and also for other reasons as stated below. How does the CARES Act create new unemployment insurance benefits? The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (“PUA”) provision of the CARES Act expands coverage to certain workers who traditionally are not eligible for unemployment benefits under state law, such as individuals who are self-employed, independent contractors, have limited work history, or who have exhausted all rights to regular or extended unemployment benefits, among others. This is particularly important for those who work in the gig economy, who work largely as independent contractors and freelancers.
An individual has been diagnosed with COVID-19 or is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and seeking diagnosis; |
WEDNESDAY APRIL 08, 2020 10:27 AM Working from home: The company is looking to assign 50 laptops to MDA employees for next week. These are going to members who are on a list for Dr. recommendations for not being at work for multiple reasons. IF YOU FIT THE CATEGORY TO WORK FROM HOME:
Following next week, there are roughly 150 more laptops coming and will also be assigned to MDA employees per the same list as mentioned above. I don't know who is on the list or how many there are, just want you all to know, the 200ish will be assigned to the MDA. If you fit the criteria of age and underlying conditions, and have doctors support to NOT come to work, see your supervisor to be put on a list and also, make sure to file an A&S claim with supporting doctor information. You can start a claim by calling 1-800-416-1808. If excepted, the claim will pay for 14 days out on the benefit. Please contact us with any questions. Thank you, Bill Louis |
WEDNESDAY APRIL 08, 2020 9:50 AM Cleaning update; Just for the record, they did not only clean the Presidents office, as someone posted, they have been cleaning the "positive" case locations and have done 4 that I am aware of so far. I just got off the phone with HR, 2 minutes ago, and was told there is a 15th positive case from 88-10th floor. Any questions, please feel free to contact the union office at 860-448-0552. Thanks again for your patience. Bill Louis |
TUESDAY APRIL 7, 2020 8:30AM If you have questions or concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus, Please contact the EB Medical Staff at the following numbers: |
WEDNESDAY APRIL 1, 2020 4:15 PM The optical shop in New London will be closing for the time being. |
WEDNESDAY APRIL 1, 2020 2:15 PM We have just confirmed a second case of COVID-19 at the Groton shipyard. In accordance with privacy laws, we cannot release the name of this employee, but we can provide this information:
This individual recognized they were becoming ill and took the following steps:
We will continue to keep you informed of further developments. Please take the proper steps to protect yourself, your coworkers and our communities – practice social distancing while at work, wash your hands, stay hydrated, get plenty of rest and most importantly, stay home if you suspect you are sick or are in close contact with an individual with COVID-19. By doing these things, we can help to keep everyone who works at or supports Electric Boat safe and healthy, while we meet our obligation to continue our work as an essential part of our nation’s defense. Continue to stay tuned to Homeport and EB Landing, posted hardcopies and email for the latest updates to our business. Thank you for all you do. Please continue to stay healthy and safe! Kevin |
WEDNESDAY APRIL 1, 2020 8:00 AM I know most have heard but wanted to post for update. We have just confirmed that one of our fellow shipbuilders in Groton has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The individual has not been in the shipyard since March 9. The individual has been recuperating at home and felt better on March 17. A test for COVID 19 was administered on March 19 and the results of that test were provided this afternoon. We appreciate that this individual stayed home and put the health and welfare of their teammates first when they were not feeling well. We are evaluating our medical protocol to determine when this individual will be allowed to return to work. Our leadership team is contacting employees who work near the individual or who came into close contact with the individual. Because this individual has been out of the shipyard for more than 14 days, the risk for infection to others is considered minimal. We have been actively cleaning the entire shipyard, including Building 1. Kevin |
TUESDAY MARCH 31, 1:20 PM Update on Floated Holiday Those who already work a straight 8, 3:00pm til 11:00pm will have the option to work until 1:00am to float. Thank you, Bill |
Tuesday march 31, 2002 10:45 am We had 8 employees from Tower A, 3rd floor and 4 employees from Tower B, 3rd floor sent home recently for quarantine. I would like to report the test results came back negative and all employees will be notified and able to return to work. Thank you, |
Sisters and Brothers, We have been notified today that two more members of our UAW family have fallen to the virus. One member worked at Ford Motor Company Dearborn Stamping and a skilled trades brother who worked at the Ford Data Center in Dearborn, Michigan. Our prayers and support go out to their families and communities. A quick update today on efforts to produce the desperately needed Personal Protection Equipment for those front line workers. General Motors has announced that it is converting the Warren, Michigan, plant to begin making surgical masks. They estimate to start, they will be able to produce 50,000 masks per day, potentially increasing to 100,000 per day. All workers in these efforts are paid volunteers. You can find updates and submit questions that you may have about your worksite at UAW (https://uaw.org/coronavirus/). My prayers, every day, are with my UAW family. We are in this together. In solidarity, Rory L. Gamble |
friday march 27, 2020 2:05 pm Pharmacy deliveries EB Pharmacy will be delivering prescriptions to New London, starting Monday next week. The hours for delivery will be, 6:00pm till 6:30pm on Mondays and Thursdays to help with the 2nd shift employees. Just for an FYI, EB Pharmacy is also sending prescriptions out by 2-day Fed-Ex directly to employees homes. If the employee does happen to live in RI it is a very seamless process to have it filled from the Quonset point pharmacy as we share the same computer system. New prescriptions are not required with the exception of schedule II controlled substances. The Pharmacy delivery's are in Bldg 88 2:15pm-3:30pm on Fridays and Yard Hospital from 1:45pm-3:30pm on Tuesday. 10 hour days The question has been coming up about the 10's going away. My answer would be no. THEY ARE SUSPENDED TEMPORARILY UNTIL MAY 22. This is temporary and only per the memo signed between the company and the union. It expires on May 22, 2020. This in no way, takes away from what we have in our contract, that is the reason for signing a memo, First shift starts We have heard from some employees that they are being told they are not allowed to enter the facility prior to 5:45am. It was the first we heard it. There should be no direction for this. Employees are coming into work for a 6:00am or 6:30am start, they park and head into their work area, within the facility. |
Friday march 27, 2020 8:30 am From President William E. Louis This update is to inform the employees as soon as possible and to continue the transparency. The Union and Company continue to make the safety and health of its employees their number one priority.We are facing unique safety and health issues and also business challenges related to the COVID-19 public health crisis. We understand the work life impact the COVID-19 crisis is having on our employees and their families. The Union and Company have agreed to the following, Effective Monday, March 30, 2020, the following changes will take place: - First shift hours, Monday through Friday for all will be straight eight hour days with a through lunch. - Employees have the option to start at 6:00am or 6:30am and work till 2:00pm or 2:30pm. > There is no shift premium for first shift. - Second shift hours, Monday through Friday for any volunteers and staffed Salary, will be straight eight hours with a through lunch. > Shift premium is given to all employees working second shift. - Second shift hours are 4:00pm to Midnight for all folks and all facilities with the exception of shipyard support, Planning Yard and Waterfront which has the option for a 3:00pm to 11:00pm straight eight hours. - All 10 hours shifts are temporarily suspended for the term of the agreement, presently though May 22nd, 2020. - All overtime and/or make-up time will be executed on Saturday and/or Sunday, if available. > Weekend hours for first shift will be 6:00am through 11:00am and 1:00pm through 6:00pm for Our goal is to "not" have anyone working prior to 6:00am, hourly or salary, or between the first shift ending and second shift beginning. > Exceptions to this must be approved by the Director. > This will allow for the cleaners to do their job before and after the shifts along with between shifts. The cleaners are responsible for cleaning the bathrooms, handrails, door knobs, ATA terminals, kitchenettes, floors and emptying the trash. The company has ordered supplies for everyone to have so they can keep there desk area and surface clean, this is all of ours, responsibility. We will continue to update you all and appreciate everyone working together to get through this situation. |
Marich 25, 2020 2:40pm This is an update from Monday’s memorandum. To increase employee separation and provide a safer working environment during these challenging times, additional changes to the standard shift start/end times are required. Thank you to all who have volunteered and changed your work shifts to help facilitate our efforts. You are helping safeguard the health and wellbeing of our employees and their families. Electric Boat Management and the MDA Union have agreed to the following work shift parameters which are applicable to all MDA and salaried employees. These changes will be effective March 30, 2020 through May 22, 2020.
Note: Employees who choose to start before 0629 are not entitled to shift premium.
New London Parking: To allow Electric Boat employees greater parking flexibility at this time, all restrictions in the New London parking garage are now lifted and temporary parking solutions have been made available at Fort Trumbull by the city of New London. When utilizing street parking, please ensure you park in a legitimate parking spot. For additional information on New London parking resources, please click here. Please take advantage of using both entrances (Gate A and Gate C) to the parking garage to relieve congestion. Employees that would like to park in the NLPG will need a NLPG sticker starting Monday 3/30. Please be reminded that LT. Stabley will be available in the parking office from 0900-1100 and 1500-1630 from Monday through Friday. Driving regulations in the NLPG must be followed. New London Security will continue to monitor the cameras and issue citations for drivers found to be in violation of the garage driving regulations. Driving regulations are:
Violations will result in suspension of NLPG privileges. As a reminder, if you feel sick do not come to work. You should call your healthcare provider from home and then inform your Supervisor. We greatly appreciate your continued patience, flexibility and cooperation at this challenging time. We have a responsibility to maintain our operations – and we must do so, as we always do – with safety in mind. Please continue to monitor Homeport, EB Landing and social media for additional updates and be sure to reach out to one of us or your Supervisor, Manager, or Director with any questions. Emil Casciano, Vice President, Engineering and Design |
March 25, 2020 9:30 am This update is to inform the employees as soon as possible and to continue the transparency. The Union and Company continue to make the safety and health of its employees their number one priority.We are facing unique safety and health issues and also business challenges related to the COVID-19 public health crisis. We understand the work life impact the COVID-19 crisis is having on our employees and their families. The Union and Company have agreed to the following, to alleviate hardships the COVID-19 public health crisis is still creating; - First shift hours, Monday through Friday for all will be straight eight hour days with a through lunch. - Employees have the option to start at 6:00am or 6:30am and work till 2:00pm or 2:30pm. > There is no shift premium for first shift. - Second shift hours, Monday through Friday for any volunteers and staffed Salary, will be straight eight hours with a through lunch. > Shift premium is given to all employees working second shift. - Second shift hours are 4:00pm to Midnight for all folks and all facilities with the exception of shipyard support, Planning Yard and Waterfront which has the option for a 3:00pm to 11:00pm straight eight hours. - All 10 hours shifts are temporarily suspended for the term of the agreement, presently though May 22nd, 2020. - All overtime and/or make-up time will be executed on Saturday and/or Sunday, if available. > Weekend hours for first shift will be 6:00am through 11:00am and 1:00pm through 6:00pm for second shift. Our goal is to "not" have anyone working prior to 6:00am, hourly or salary, or between the first shift ending and second shift beginning. > Exceptions to this must be approved by the Director. > This will allow for the cleaners to do their job before and after the shifts along with between shifts. The cleaners are responsible for cleaning the bathrooms, handrails, door knobs, ATA terminals, kitchenettes, floors and emptying the trash. The company has ordered supplies for everyone to have so they can keep there desk area and surface clean, this is all of ours, responsibility. We will continue to update you all and appreciate everyone working together to get through this situation. Thank you and please let me know of any questions, William E Louis, MDA-UAW Local 571 President |
March 23, 2020 A message from EB president Kevin graney |
Sunday, March 22, 2012 10:30 am I now want to share with all of you a conversation I had with the V.P. yesterday, Saturday. The company wants to talk about the 2nd shift and not having enough volunteers for a 2 week period. Knowing this starts tomorrow with the 2 shifts, we will be looking at a change for next week in possibly enacting the 2nd shift by MDA contract. This would mean, if implemented, that 2nd shift would add more folks due to not enough volunteering, unfortunately. This would have to be done in accordance with our contract and seniority. I would also like to inform you all that Salary is around a 50% split between 1st and 2nd shift. This is the best way to reduce to employees i areas and spread them out. This is probably the last option prior to shutting down. I know this will upset many folks but this is the safest option and I don't have many answers for this other than if it goes through, it will be by contract. We would also ask for 2 shifts with 4-10's, if possible. I will update you all more when I have something. |
Sunday, March 22, 2012 10:00 am Just an update on "Working from home". The union asked the company to include the hourly folks in this option where - and if - it is feasible, and the work can be done at home by having the right tools needed. The union has no say or input in who is able to or not. There is an SP that Salary uses and we will be held to the same rules/approval from the director. I can say that I don't think, with most MDA jobs, this is an option for many. But what I can say is that a little more than a dozen MDA folks have been approved to work from home. Our union office has 2 company laptops that we can lend out if a member is in need of it, if they get approval and dont have already have a company laptop. Again, this won't be available to many and we don't have any say in the approval of who is allowed or not. |
Sunday, March 22, 2012 from President Bill Louis Hello all, I know everyone is looking for me to give more and more updates. Believe it or not, I am in the same position as many of you and pass along any info I can while dealing with my own family, with fears and many questions unanswered. So please excuse me if I don't have answers for every situation out, there because I don't - but will continue to bring your concerns to the company while trying to work with them, all the while not agreeing myself with many answers given. But I do feel they are doing the best they can with the business of 17,000 employees and needing to keep the business open and running while keeping all safe. I will let you know that I have spoken with the company daily. I received a call yesterday from EB medical letting me know that there was an employee of interest along with 3 others they were in contact, sent home from B Tower 3 in NL yesterday. That area has been cleaned. They will inform me of the test results as soon as they come in, along with others that are still pending. I will also say that I suggested, probably with others, the idea of a shut down that could be implemented very soon and replace the Christmas one. I have signed a memo with the company to be prepared for this when/if it gets to that decision. I was on a conference call Friday afternoon with the company to discuss the 2 shifts and it taken effect tomorrow. All info I have posted from day 1 with all the options have not changed, at this moment, it just took a little while for management to get the correct info/translation, which is at no fault to them. It has been very frustratied getting the info out. This is why I have been trying my best to get the correct info out there and then have to explain why ours is different - which I have spent many hours this past week doing and will continue the best I can. Thank you, Bill Louis |
Friday March 20, 2020 2:08pm From Emil Casciano Last update for the day based on questions I’ve received. 1. Shift work starts Monday 2. For those parking in the NL garage, you’re welcome to park without a pass, but please get a pass by the end of next week. 5. The City of New London is working with us on parking arrangements and we will put out an update for you. Unfortunately, they are meeting at 1400 today, so the update won’t be available before many leave for the day. Thanks for your continues patience and support! |
Friday March 20, 2020 9:00am An update from Emil Casciano Two updates for you: 1. Despite what I said in #4 below, the shuttle will continue service next week as we evaluate what is needed. If you rely on the shuttle service to get you to and from work, you can continue to do so. I will update you again if that policy changes.2. Great news for those who have volunteered for second shift – the cafeteria is flexing to support! The services that will be provided are included below. Starbucks: open at 6am Second shift: Café – 4pm to 7pm
Starbucks – 4pm to 7pm
Market 24 on BC3 connector
Green Mountain coffee kiosk – 24/7
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Friday March 20, 9:00 am Bill Louis, President PLEASE understand that we are trying to post updates to keep you as informed as possible. I know that some of you, no matter what, continue to put negative comments and opinions on our Facebook Page. I do understand everyone has different thoughts, ideas, issues, concerns etc.... that doesn't mean the Company is not trying to do the best they can by providing as many options as they can to help "all employees" not just hourly and salary. Nothing put out on social media will make everyone happy, that's a fact! BUT, I am asking you all to be positive and do what you can to help get through this. Options today give employees ways to avoid crowds, still get paid, stay home, flex..... What ever way you are looking to do it, you must talk to your supervisor so they are aware of what you are doing. Unfortunately, communication is once again the biggest issue, some do it better than others. Again, I am posting info to help inform you and if you have questions, please let us know. You can call our office at 860-448-0552 to ask anything. Again, we are "asking" for your help with the 2 shift option. This would be for a few weeks as of today. |
Friday March 20, 2020 7:30 am William E Louis Thank you for your patience with all the communication that has been going around. I want to let you know, that I am very frustrated how yesterday went in rolling out the email from the Company. Our goal is and has been, to work with the company the best we can for all employees during this difficult time. We are hoping and endorsing the proposed 2 shifts for a temporary period. We made the agreement to make it a "through lunch" of 8 straight hours. This is only temporary and all will go back to normal once we get through this. If these options are a problem for some folks, please see your supervisor to discuss your schedule and the company will look to accommodate. Again, we ask for your help in making this work for the short time ahead. If you have any questions, please call me at 860-448-0552 and we can discuss this further, or you can email me at bill.louis@snet.net |
Email dated Thursday, March 19, 2020 Company proposes for a second shift: Just got back from Alpha trials on the Vermont – what a boat! The propulsion plant operated exactly as designed and the hull integrity was certified to test depth. Well done on the design, engineering and construction! The Union President Bill Louis and I have sat down to discuss how we should respond to the COVID-19 situation. We ask you to embrace these temporary measures and work together as a team to help keep everyone healthy and safe while also getting our job done. 1. In the next few days, we would like to start a two-shift policy throughout the company. The goal of the two shifts is to maximize the benefits of social distancing while continuing to work the products necessary to support the needs of our national defense. The two shifts will be 0600-1400 and 1600-2400 – straight 8 hour shifts. Second shift (hourly and salary) will get shift premium. If you have concerns about these shift times, please discuss with your Supervisor - we will accommodate exceptions to the maximum extent possible. The time before each shift will be used to clean and sanitize common areas. Some specific areas may have different arrangements based on business need and location (for example, construction support, chemists, etc). 2. For those that are asked to work second shift, obviously the cafeteria will be closed, so you’ll need to use the grab-and-go or bring your own. 3. Please keep your desks clear of all paper, pencils, staplers, calculators, etc. We need to maintain a clean desk policy to make it easy to clean in the event that someone shows symptoms and needs to be quarantined. The cleaning staff will focus their efforts on the common areas (bathrooms, handles/doorknobs, kitchenettes, ….). We have purchased additional disinfectant wipes that will be staged in working areas for employees to clean their desks. Those supplies were ordered a couple of weeks ago and should be available in the next week. In the event that we have asked someone to leave the building and self-quarantine, the cleaning staff sanitize the area. 4. I’ve noticed clustering in the cafeteria and Starbucks line. Please be mindful of the social distancing guidance and try to stagger your meals/coffee so everyone isn’t in line at the same time. The Wet Dock cafeteria is already on staggered hours and the cafeteria in B88 will get there shortly (hours to be announced). In NL, we are going to implement a staggered lunch period. Please try to adhere to these times to the best of your ability as we continue to try and limit the crowds as much as possible: a. Tower A 1100-1130 5. As an additional measure to maximize social distancing, the shuttles will stop between facilities and the Water Street Garage when we get into shiftwork. In NL, the garage will be open parking except for reserved spots with a sign – this will take effect sometime next week and anticipate this will accommodate all employees in the NL facility. The garage will be first-come, first-served throughout the entire garage as soon as we transition to shift work. If this creates a hardship, please let us know ASAP so we can have the discussion. 6. If you feel sick do not come to work! You should call your healthcare provider from home and then inform your Supervisor. We are trying hard to protect our employees while getting the job done. We appreciate your patience as we work together to get through this challenging situation. The situation changes several times a day and we are trying to do the right thing while keep you all informed. Be sure to use the EB Landing app on your cell phone to obtain the latest information from your personal phone. I do not have a reliable estimate of how long we will be in shift work, but it could be a few months. Emil Casciano |
