IBEW/FOX Sports Negotiation Update #2
We have now completed two sessions of negotiations with Fox Sports, with the most recent taking place during Daytona. During this last round, the company presented a group of detailed proposals for the committee’s consideration. Some of the proposals focused on time keeping procedures for the work day, such as; quarter hour rounding for out-times; restructuring the accounting for travel-only days where only actual hours worked count towards the work week; and only counting actual hours worked towards the work week. The company also proposed a reduction of the daily per diem.
Most of the company’s proposals can have adverse monetary effects on the membership, and is not a surprise considering 21st Century Fox’s recent economic struggles. For that reason, it was not good timing to have economic discussions. As a company, they are attempting a restructure to cut over $250 million from their operating budget. And while it seems to be the Filmed Entertainment division that is struggling the most, losing 34 million dollars in the last quarter, the entire company, including the Television division, is being forced to contribute to the cuts.
We have engaged in spirited debate with Fox Sports on many of our proposals relating to, job security, cancellation policies, call times, enhanced training, and formation of a safety committee, seniority proposals, the Flex Plan, and relief staffing. We also have additional proposals such as upgrades for handhelds and fiber technicians, which is still on the table.
Our next bargaining session is scheduled for the last week of March, and your IBEW bargaining committee will continue the process negotiating the best deal possible for our membership. The current CBA expires on July 31, 2016, and we remain optimistic on being able to finish before then. As this process continues, we will keep you updated as to the status. If you have any questions, please contact your local business manager or the broadcast department.
In Solidarity,
Your IBEW Bargaining Team