El Monte : Union Seeks War Holidays
Some people were content just to wave a flag or tie on a yellow ribbon, but not members of one of the city employees’ unions. They want three days off with pay in recognition of the liberation of Kuwait.
The City Council on Tuesday voted unanimously to bypass the usual grievance procedure and to allow the Service Workers International Union Local 347 to proceed directly to court with its complaint.
The union, which represents about 140 of the city’s 390 workers, maintains that President Bush’s proclamation of “national days of thanksgiving” on April 5-7 qualifies as a national holiday under the terms of their contract.
Even though two days fell on a weekend, the workers contend they are entitled to make-up holidays on the nearest Friday or Monday.
“It’s clearly stated in our union contract. Our employees have these holidays coming to them,” said Sally Ramirez, a union representative.
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