Background on Key Players and Relevance
The final week of May is pivotal for contract and wage negotiations between labor unions and two significant entities: La Jornada, a Mexican newspaper, and Aeroméxico, a major Mexican airline. The unions involved, SITRAJOR and ASSA, have set strike dates of May 26th and 31st, respectively. Meanwhile, the Sindicato de Telefonistas de la República Mexicana (Telephone Workers’ Union of the Mexican Republic) awaits more favorable proposals closer to their demand for a 15.07% increase.
SITRAJOR’s Stance and Actions
The Independent Workers’ Union of La Jornada (SITRAJOR) confirmed a strike on May 23rd, with the planned strike date set for May 26th due to the company’s reluctance to negotiate. SITRAJOR has repeatedly called for dialogue and urged federal government representatives to intervene in resolving the conflict, which has persisted for many years with the company attempting to cancel the collective labor agreement.
ASSA’s Rejection of Company Proposal
The Association of Airline Cabin Crew (ASSA), representing over 2,000 workers, rejected the company’s salary increase proposal of 2.9% (Contract A) and 3.25% (Contract B). They will meet again on May 26th in an attempt to reach an agreement before the strike deadline.
Telephone Workers’ Union’s Demands
The Telephone Workers’ Union has not accepted the company’s proposal, particularly in economic clauses. They have countered with a direct 15.07% salary increase for active employees and retirees. Administrative issues remain unresolved, with the company denying 8 clauses and negotiating 6 others.
Key Negotiation Points
- Economic Clauses: The Telephone Workers’ Union demands a 15.07% direct salary increase for both active employees and retirees.
- Administrative Clauses: The company has denied 8 clauses, while negotiations continue on 6 others.
- Additional Important Clauses: The union has highlighted vacancies, productivity, productivity surplus, and a New Labor Agreement containing crucial topics such as TELMEX’s technological evolution, investment and development, and rebranding the TELMEX marque.
Upcoming Meetings and Potential Impact
A preliminary meeting was held on Friday with Judge Milen Montero Alvarez, who requested information from both parties to reach an agreement before May 31st. A new meeting, led by the Secretary of Interior, the Secretary of Technical Affairs, and the Press Liaison Assistant, is scheduled for May 26th at 9:30 AM.
These negotiations will significantly impact La Jornada’s operations and Aeroméxico’s services, potentially causing disruptions for employees, customers, and the broader public. The outcome of these discussions will set a precedent for future labor negotiations in Mexico, emphasizing the importance of fair wages and working conditions.
