UHPA Responds to Salary Reductions

Today’s action is without precedent in the history of the State of Hawaii. Never has the State repudiated a collective bargaining agreement that they signed and attempted to nullify its provisions. In July 2009, Arbitrator Mario Ramil made it clear in a final, binding decision that the current contract remains in full force and effect until a new contract is in place.

Today’s action is a not only a breach of contract, but also shows blatant disrespect for the negotiated agreement and the faculty. UHPA is notifying other public sector unions about this because it sends a chilling message to all unions that at any time the State can renege on its negotiated agreements.  This mocks the collective bargaining process and puts every agreement in jeopardy.

President Greenwoods’ action and letter to faculty today creates further distance with the faculty and undermines trust in her and her leadership.

UHPA has attempted to reach out to the general counsel of the UH to discuss next steps, but the UH has been shut down over the holidays as directed by UH President Greenwood.  We are poised to take the necessary and deliberate action needed to ensure the UH keeps its word by honoring the contract. UHPA will take action to protect the rights of the faculty and to preserve a legitimate collective bargaining agreement in whatever court or venue is necessary.

PLEASE READ IMPORTANT LINKS BELOW:

December 28th Letter from John Morton

December 28th Employer Unilateral Proposal

T. Anthony Gill, Esq. Statement

Faculty Messaging Piece

Arbitrator Ramil's Decision