thanks for all ur guys info. 1 union steward told me that the full timers have given up on part timers because they don't come to meetings and don't file on working sups. most of the part timers i talk to and ones that work on our PD say they don't feel like their is any point to file or get involved. they say our BA and stewards only care about full timers. had an idea of talking to BA about having a part timer only union meeting. I know BA is not baby sitter but maybe getting part timers together can take care of some problems and get everyone at monthly meeting. not sure if this is even possible. would appreciate any ideas.
J, these are some good points. We kinda felt the same way here. I've stated before, we never saw any p/ters at our general meetings, but I feel, more importantly, at out contract proposal meetings. Then wonder why they got "screwed".
Briefly, at one of our last proposal meetings (they were held on Sat and Suns so that everyone could attend and given proper advance notice so there'd be no excuse), we attended on Sun cuz our sleeper run brot us in then. Our of 5 (yes, FIVE) in attendance, 3 were feeder drivers and 2 were BAs.
As a steward, I would see these same instances you are talking about. I would inquire as to who could, would, should file in the p/t ranks. NO ONE would step up. All afraid or complacent. So, again, as a steward, what do you do? If you are available for the work at the time, YOU file, on behalf of yourself or some other senior person. In my case, it certainly wasn't about the $, being in sleepers I didn't need it. It was about the company doing the right thing and defending the contract. SOMEBODY had to do it.
Get together with your BA to have a p/t only meeting? Good idea. Now, trying to get alot/most/all the p/ters there: Bad idea. It ain't gonna happen. Sorry. It's been tried here many times with dismal results. On the union part? No, guess.
My advice to you? Keep on the watch. Ask the steward WHEN you can file. Ask them to help you with a grievance if you qualify. Point out to others WHEN they can file and then prod them to do so.
Good luck.